The City of Independence is closely monitoring the local water supply and City Engineer John Garris says that although the flow from the City’s primary water source, the Verdigris River, has been sufficient to meet the city’s needs and with fall on the horizon and the accompanied reduced demand, citizens are still encouraged to voluntarily conserve water when possible. Mainly due to the long-rage forecast indicating a lack of any significant precipitation.

Garris went on to say that a new agreement with the Kansas Water Commission will provide a reserve of 60 million gallons from the Elk City Reservoir for emergency use as well as 40 million gallons of state vested water rights are remaining.

The City will cease operating fountains, watering City grounds, and washing vehicles, and they ask citizens voluntarily limit or cease lawn watering, vehicle washing, and filling of swimming pools.

The City will provide updates and water conservation tips every Friday on its Facebook page. Any water leaks should be immediately reported to the City at 620-332-2507.