Press Releases

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) sent a letter to recently confirmed Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum highlighting the longstanding work by Kansans to responsibly steward water resources at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge and the Rattlesnake Creek Basin, as well as the economic impact the basin has in the region and the need for stability in 2026.
 
"Agriculture is the basin's primary industry, generating millions of dollars in direct and indirect revenue. Losing the ability to irrigate crops would reduce these revenues by tens of millions of dollars, forcing many of these already struggling family-run farms to exit the industry entirely," wrote Rep. Estes.
 
"As we quickly approach the 2026 growing season, Rattlesnake Creek Basin communities need additional assurances that they can continue their farming efforts without fear that FWS will call for water. I respectfully ask that, as soon as possible, you commit, in writing, your Department to preventing FWS from calling for water for Quivira NWR during 2026."
 
Rep. Estes has long advocated for the farmers, ranchers and communities around Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, meeting with stakeholders throughout his tenure and commenting on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's decisions not to request to secure water in 2020 and 2024.