About the Institute

Tackling water resource challenges together

K-State has a long history of water resource research. Under the 1964 Water Resources Research Act, each state and territory established a water resources institute. The Kansas Water Resources Institute receives base funding from the U.S. Geological Survey to plan, facilitate and conduct research that addresses the state’s water resource priorities.

In 2023, Kansas State University launched its Next-Gen K-State strategic plan. The plan called for new and innovative interdisciplinary efforts that could create solutions for some of the most pressing issues in our state, nation and world. The university saw an opportunity to elevate the existing Kansas Water Resources Institute by creating a new university-level interdisciplinary institute focused on collaborative research, teaching and engagement.

Using collaboration and community engagement

KWI Director Susan Metzger discusses the intersection of water resource management, agricultural productivity, and interdisciplinary academic research in the recent "Something to Chew On" podcast. Tune in to hear Dr. Metzger's evidence-based solutions for confronting the toughest water challenges of our time.