Your Well Water Comes from the Ogallala Aquifer

The Ogallala is the largest aquifer in the United States. It runs under 49 Texas counties, including all of the northern Panhandle. About 95 percent of the water pumped from it goes to irrigated farming. Water levels in parts of Texas have dropped more than 300 feet over the past 50 to 60 years. In Hansford County, the water is generally fresh because the county sits north of the Canadian River.

The North Plains Groundwater Conservation District (NPGCD) oversees groundwater in Hansford County. Before drilling a new well, you must contact the district for a permit. The district also requires water usage reporting and has a meter reimbursement program. Contact NPGCD at 806-935-6401 or visit northplainsgcd.org to check current permit rules before you drill.