Democratic challenger Paul Davis is disputing statements from Republican Gov. Sam Brownback that Davis has shown little interest in water conservation in Kansas.

The Davis campaign responded Wednesday to a statement from Brownback that Davis has no credibility on water issues.

Brownback promised during a news conference to finish work on a 50-year water conservation plan if he’s re-elected this year. He said water is a crucial issue, and the state needs a governor who’s interested in it.

Davis spokesman Chris Pumpelly said the Democrat has met privately with farmers, water-rights attorneys and others to discuss water issues.

Pumpelly also said funding for water conservation efforts is jeopardized by aggressive personal income tax cuts enacted at Brownback’s urging in 2012 and 2013.