A public hearing will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 22, 2021, to consider the adoption of proposed regulations related to the development of Local Enhanced Management Areas (LEMA) by groundwater management districts. Due to public health concerns posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the hearing proceedings will be conducted virtually via Zoom to provide the opportunity for virtual participation online.

The Kansas Department of Agriculture is proposing amendments to K.A.R. 5-19-1 through K.A.R. 5-19-5, which define terms and set forth requirements for the development and review of a LEMA plan, as well as the requirements for implementing changes to a LEMA plan. A LEMA is a tool that allows local groundwater management districts to set goals and control measures to aid in water conservation. There are currently three LEMAs in place in Kansas.

Anyone desiring to participate via video conference must pre-register to be provided with a video link. Registration information can be found in the expanded notice of public hearing which may be accessed on the KDA website along with a copy of the proposed regulations on the Public Comments page. The public comment web page includes a copy of the proposed regulations as well as an opportunity to provide written comments prior to the hearing; they can also be sent to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, 1320 Research Park Drive, Manhattan, KS, 66502.

Any individual with a disability may request accommodation in order to participate in the public hearing and may request a copy of the regulations in an accessible format. Persons who require special accommodations must make their needs known at least two working days prior to the hearing. For more information, including special accommodations or a copy of the regulations, please contact Ronda Hutton at 785-564-6715 or Ronda.Hutton@ks.gov.

What: Public hearing on proposed LEMA regulations

When: 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 22, 2021

Where: Virtual: via Zoom