Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park

Kansas Geological Survey

Our purpose: To conduct and provide objective and integrative geoscience research, with emphasis on energy, mineral resources, geohazards, and water resources across the state.

Research Programs

KGS scientist conducting field work

Water Resources and Geohydrology

Studying aquifers, rivers, and streams to provide a scientific foundation for water management.
Drill rig in Barber County

Energy

Exploring oil and gas resources, carbon and hydrogen storage, and other energy initiatives.
Bungee-assisted weight drop attached to Bobcat Toolcat.

Geophysics and Hazards

Monitoring earthquakes, developing seismic techniques, and supporting field-based research.

Research Programs

Scientist examining a rock outcrop

Geology and Mineral Resources

Studying and mapping the geologic resources of the state.
Scientists excavating bison bones

Geoarchaeology

Searching for evidence of the earliest people to inhabit the Central Great Plains.

KGS sign

About the KGS

Our mission, positions available, advisory committees, and frequently asked questions.

Outreach, Education, and Publications

Little Jerusalem hoodoo

Educational Resources

Learn about the geology of Kansas featuring geologic sites, classroom activities, and more
Covers of KGS publications

Publications

Books and maps on the geology, minerals, and natural resources of the state.
The KGS Data Resources Library

Archives and Libraries

Kansas Geologic Sample Repository, Data Resources Library, and KGS Drill Core Library.

KGS in the news

Groundwater Measurement Results Mixed in Western, South-Central Kansas

Preliminary groundwater level measurements compiled by the KGS show mixed results for western and south-central Kansas in 2023, with some areas in the northwest and west-central part of the state experiencing increases for the first time in three or more years.

KGS, State Agency to Measure Groundwater Levels in Western Kansas

A KGS crew and staff from three field offices of the Kansas Department of Agriculture's Division of Water Resources will be in western Kansas measuring groundwater levels the first week of January.

KGS Report Assesses Health of the High Plains Aquifer

A new publication from the Kansas Geological Survey assesses current conditions and trends in water levels and groundwater usage in the High Plains aquifer, the state’s most economically important groundwater resource.

KGS Scientist, Colleagues Receive $1.16 Million NSF Grant

A collaboration of scientists from six organizations, including the KGS, has received a $1.16 million grant from the National Science Foundation to implement and study the effects of a field safety, anti-harassment, and bystander intervention training certificate program.

Coming Events

March 26–28: Kansas Rural Water Association Conference

The KGS will have a booth at the Kansas Rural Water Association Conference.

April 27: Earth Day

Come celebrate Earth Day with the Kansas Geological Survey and the Kansas Water Science Center!

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