Program Objective

Chloride contamination within the Equus Beds Aquifer from previous oil field production has created large pockets of groundwater which are unsuitable for most uses.  Remediation of high chloride hot spots within the Equus Beds would help generate an additional water supply source as well as protect and prolong the useable lifespan of groundwater wells within the formation. Over time, these hot spots migrate and mix with adjacent freshwater, making the chloride more difficult to remove.

KWO Program Activities

• Collaborate with KDHE on framework development for a pilot treatment project within the Equus Beds Aquifer to remediate the Burrton chloride plume impacting groundwater within the regions as well as the City of Wichita's groundwater well field.
• Assist in securing additional funding for pilot project through the WaterSMART program, local water users, or other sources of funding as they become known. 
• Key Dates and Deliverables
  • November 2019 - Feasibility Study of remedial alternatives due (3months)
  • December 2019 - Engage potential partners and local users for comments
  • January 2020 - Project finalized and partner comments received
  • Remedial Investigation Report Burrton Oil Field Brine Plume
  • Feasibility Study Report: Burrton Oil Field Brine Plume

   

   

Vision Implementation Total Needs

Successful implementation of this project will provide a better understanding of what type of treatment technology is necessary for a full-scale remediation project.  Total project costs for a full-scale remediation project could exceed $50,000,000

Program Budget

• $50,000 in FY2019
• $50,000 in FY2020
• $100,000 requested in FY2021

Potential Additional Funding Resources

• U.S. Bureau of Reclamation WaterSMART Program
• City of Wichita
• Groundwater Management District #2

Consequences of not Funding

Continued movement of the Burrton chloride plume within the Equus Beds Aquifer towards the east-southeast, leading to impacts with the City of Wichita's groundwater well field as well as other regional groundwater users. 

Project Manager

Gary Koons