Water + Energy Progress identifies and celebrates Kansas farmers and ranchers who are using innovative methods to save water and energy.  Since the project started in 2012, we’ve tried to use innovative methods to tell their stories.  Like the old saying, "seeing is believing,” we show you the great things happening on-the-ground in Kansas agriculture with case studies, digital video features, and even a bus tour.

In December, we hosted the first Water + Energy Progress Bus Tour.  Jam-packed with information, the tour featured Lucinda Stuenkel, Dale Strickler, Ted Alexander, and Gail Fuller, along with presentations by SARE, NRCS, and USDA REAP.

The bus stopped first at Lucinda Stuenkel’s where we learned about the ways no-till with cover crops save water and energy.  Lucinda showed us her maternity barn with surveillance system which saves human energy, fuel, and positively impacts the health of the livestock.

Ted Alexander chimed in on the impacts of managed grazing and cover crops on soil health and resilience.

At Dale Strickler’s, we had an in-the-field panel discussion where each Award winner discussed the journey of challenge, innovation, and success.

We will continue to post videos from the tour, so bookmark the CEP Vimeo page and check back for more video features of Water + Energy Progress Award winners, like the one we just added about John Bradley’s innovative watering systems.

While you’re there, consider fencing options with Alan and Joseph Hubbard. 

Learn about how Darin and Nancy Williams save fuel and time by planting warm and cool season crops together.