Kansas Water Office explores hydrosection to manage sediment at John Redmond Reservoir

During a recent meeting of the Water Program Task Force on August 12, 2025, Kansas legislators discussed pressing issues surrounding sedimentation at the John Redmond Reservoir, a critical water source for the Wolf Creek nuclear power plant. The meeting highlighted the need for innovative solutions to manage sediment buildup, which has become a recurring challenge every few years.

One proposed solution is "hydrosection," a nontraditional dredging method that could potentially allow sediment to be passed downstream through existing pipes in the dam. While this approach shows promise, officials emphasized that it remains in the preliminary stages, requiring further study to assess its feasibility and address potential environmental concerns, such as impacts on endangered species and water quality.

The discussion also touched on the economic implications of ongoing sedimentation management. Some legislators questioned whether investing in new storage facilities might be a more effective long-term strategy than repeatedly spending millions on sediment removal. The Kansas Water Office has already initiated steps to explore this option, submitting a letter of interest to trigger further studies on the viability of new reservoirs.

The meeting underscored the importance of collaboration among state officials, federal agencies, and local stakeholders to tackle these water management challenges. As sedimentation continues to pose risks to water quality and supply, the task force remains committed to finding sustainable solutions that will benefit both the community and critical infrastructure in the region.

Looking ahead, the task force plans to conduct a cost-benefit analysis of various strategies, including hydrosection and potential new reservoir construction, to ensure that Kansas can effectively manage its water resources for years to come.