The Kansas Department of Agriculture is searching for a new chief engineer after announcing Tuesday Earl Lewis will retire from the post on Nov. 20.
Lewis served in the KDA division of water resources for six years and led the division in serving Kansas water users. In his role he oversaw the administration of more than 30,000 active water rights, four interstate water compacts and the state program regulating dams and other water structures.
“I thank Earl Lewis for the leadership he has provided to water issues in Kansas throughout his career,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “Water has been a priority during my administration, and I have appreciated Earl’s diligence in addressing the challenges as we have worked together to develop a long-term strategy to ensure a safe and resilient water supply for Kansas.”
