Geography of Finney County, Kansas

Finney County, located in southwestern Kansas, is a region characterized by its flat prairies, agricultural landscape, and semi-arid climate. Situated in the High Plains region of the United States, the county encompasses vast stretches of open land, with few natural features other than the Arkansas River and a few small lakes and reservoirs. Despite its relatively sparse geography, Finney County’s climate, rivers, lakes, and other natural attributes significantly impact its environment and way of life for its residents. This comprehensive overview will delve into the geography of Finney County, providing insights into its physical characteristics, climate, rivers, lakes, and more. Check climateforcities to learn more about the state of Kansas.

Physical Geography

Finney County is situated in the southwestern part of Kansas, bordered by Gray County to the west, Hodgeman County to the south, Kearny County to the north, and Haskell County to the east. The county’s landscape is predominantly flat, with gently rolling plains and few significant natural features.

The region is part of the Great Plains, a vast expanse of grasslands that extends from Canada to Mexico. The terrain in Finney County is characterized by fertile soil, which supports extensive agriculture, primarily wheat, corn, and sorghum crops.

Climate

Finney County experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by hot summers, cold winters, and low precipitation throughout the year. The region’s climate is influenced by its location in the interior of the North American continent, as well as its distance from major bodies of water.

Summer temperatures in Finney County typically range from the 80s to the 90s Fahrenheit (around 27-37°C), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures into the 100s Fahrenheit (around 38°C). Humidity levels are relatively low during the summer months, but the intense sunlight and lack of shade can make the heat feel oppressive.

Winter temperatures are cold, with daytime highs often below freezing and nighttime lows dropping into the teens and 20s Fahrenheit (around -7 to -1°C). Snowfall is infrequent but can occur during the winter months, typically resulting in light accumulations that quickly melt away.

Rivers and Lakes

Finney County is home to the Arkansas River, the primary waterway in the region, as well as a few small lakes and reservoirs that provide water resources for agriculture and recreation.

Arkansas River

The Arkansas River flows from the Rocky Mountains in Colorado through Kansas and several other states before eventually emptying into the Mississippi River. In Finney County, the river serves as a vital water source for irrigation and supports agriculture, primarily in the form of center-pivot irrigation systems.

Buffalo Dunes Lake

Buffalo Dunes Lake is a small reservoir located in the southeastern part of Finney County, near the city of Garden City. The lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking, as well as birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

Natural Attractions

In addition to its rivers and lakes, Finney County is home to several natural attractions that showcase the region’s beauty, biodiversity, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Sandsage Bison Range and Wildlife Area

Sandsage Bison Range and Wildlife Area is located in the southwestern part of Finney County and encompasses over 3,000 acres of native prairie habitat. The area is managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism and serves as a refuge for native wildlife, including bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs.

Visitors to Sandsage Bison Range and Wildlife Area can explore the area’s hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and interpretive exhibits, learning about the region’s natural history and conservation efforts. The area also offers opportunities for birdwatching, photography, and nature study.

Lee Richardson Zoo

Lee Richardson Zoo is located in the city of Garden City and is one of the largest municipal zoos in Kansas. The zoo features a variety of exhibits and habitats, showcasing animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, elephants, and giraffes.

Visitors to Lee Richardson Zoo can explore the zoo’s exhibits, attend animal feedings and demonstrations, and participate in educational programs and events. The zoo also features picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails, making it a popular destination for families and visitors of all ages.

Sandsage Prairie Trail

The Sandsage Prairie Trail is a scenic hiking and biking trail that traverses the native prairie habitat of Finney County. The trail stretches for approximately 8 miles, offering opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty and wildlife.

Visitors to the Sandsage Prairie Trail can hike or bike along the trail, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and encountering native plants and animals along the way. The trail is open year-round and is accessible from several trailheads located throughout Finney County.

Conclusion

Finney County, Kansas, is a region of vast prairies, agricultural landscapes, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Its semi-arid climate, characterized by hot summers and cold winters, provides ideal conditions for farming and ranching, as well as outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. With its scenic rivers, lakes, prairies, and parks, Finney County offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration, relaxation, and appreciation of the natural world. Whether you’re visiting Sandsage Bison Range and Wildlife Area, exploring Lee Richardson Zoo, or hiking along the Sandsage Prairie Trail, Finney County is sure to captivate visitors with its charm, beauty, and sense of adventure.