Sen. Jerry Moran, US Senator for Kansas | Official U.S. Senate headshot
Sen. Jerry Moran, US Senator for Kansas | Official U.S. Senate headshot
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has decided not to pursue water rights for the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in 2026, according to an announcement made on August 14, 2025. U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) responded to the decision with a statement supporting the move.
“The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s announcement that it will not request to secure water rights for the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in 2026 is a welcome one. I met with FWS Administrator Brian Nesvik and emphasized the need for long-term solutions led by stakeholders at the local level, and I am pleased by the recognition of the progress that is being made. I encourage FWS to continue working closely with Kansas producers toward a sustainable future for the watershed, agriculture and the wildlife refuge,” said Sen. Moran.
The FWS noted that conservation efforts organized by the Rattlesnake Creek Stakeholder Working Group are showing significant results. This group was established by the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources and brings together local stakeholders to address water management issues in the region.
Senator Moran has supported both the creation of this working group and ongoing collaboration between federal agencies and state departments to protect resources at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge.
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