Wetland Protection Policies in Kansas

Although wetlands are not extensively found in Kansas, their importance increases as their extent in the state declines. Historically, 12 large marshes existed north to south throughout central Kansas. Nine have been reduced through conversion to agricultural uses. The remaining three major marsh areas- Cheyenne Bottoms in Barton County, Quivira in Stafford County, and Jamestown in Republic County- are currently protected by state or federal ownership, but continue to be threatened by declining water supplies.