City, State entering “Water Watch”
Persistent dry weather conditions have prompted the State of Kansas to issue a “Water Watch” declaration for Elk City Reservoir, and the City of Independence is following suit by implementing water conservation practices and suggesting voluntary conservation by citizens.
The objective of a “Water Watch” is to heighten public awareness related to current water supply conditions.
City Engineer John Garris explained this stage of the watch is simply an effort to remind all users to give extra consideration to the amount of water used in daily activities.
“At the City, we will be making some adjustments to our routine water usage to help conserve our resources while we await cooler fall temperatures and much-needed rain,” Garris said.
He explained the City will take extra steps toward conservation, including:
• Monitoring internal water use and delaying hydrant flushing, street cleaning and non-essential usage;
• Maintaining water system pressure below 80psi; and
• Ensuring all water leaks are repaired within a 48-hour standard.
Garris noted there are several ways citizens may choose to voluntarily support water conservation, such as taking shorter showers, washing only full loads of laundry and dishes, limiting vehicle washing and not letting faucets run unnecessarily. Citizens are encouraged to promptly report any water leaks by calling 620-332-2507, but reporting water usage by neighbors or businesses is not necessary as all conservation measures are entirely voluntary.
The City will keep the public updated as drought and water supply conditions change and will provide a monthly summary of water-related information. Citizens are also encouraged to follow the City’s Facebook page for more tips on water conservation.
“The Water Watch is not a cause for alarm, but simply a reminder for us all to be responsible water users,” Garris said. “As we previously have explained, Elk City Reservoir, which is a primary source for our water supply from the Verdigris River, is projected to have sufficient capacity for downstream water users most drought scenarios, even those lasting multiple years. Water supply for our citizens and future customers today and for years to come is not currently in question, especially if we all pitch in and conserve during times of drought.”