The Cottonwood and Neosho River Basins Water Assurance District #3 has informed us that the Kansas Water Office has declared Labette County to be under a Drought Watch. As a result of the lack of rainfall and the increase in evaporation, the available District storage has dropped. The District-issued statement notes that it is imperative for members to conserve water use. This situation could become critical in the future if we don’t receive some rain along the Neosho River and above John Redmond reservoir.

As a result of the low water situation and increased daily water usage, we are issuing a Stage 1 Drought Watch. This is the first step in our Municipal Water Conservation Plan (MWCP). It is to bring a heightened awareness of our water conditions to the public in an effort to maintain the integrity of our water supply.

At this time, the city is asking for voluntary water conservation measures to limit or eliminate nonessential water uses including but not limited to: watering lawns trees, shrubs; filling swimming pools; washing motor vehicles, boats, trailers or the exterior of any building. In addition, the public needs to check for any water leaks, such as stools, faucets, hydrants, lines, etc. If you do have any leaks you should repair them immediately. Please conserve water when you and your family can. The city will monitor its own water usage and curtail activities such as hydrant flushing and street cleaning during this Drought Watch.

If conditions worsen, there are 2 more stages of drought declarations; a Stage 2 Drought Warning and a Stage 3 Drought Emergency. These stages will be triggered by more severe water conditions, and water conservation requirements will be expanded at that time.

Again, we are issuing a Stage 1 Water Watch.                         20 Water Conservation Tips

F.W. Cunningham, Jr., Mayor                                                                         

WELCOME!

Oswego, the Labette County seat, is located at the intersection of Highways 59/160, on a bluff overlooking the Neosho River Valley.  Oswego was fortunate that a group of pioneer ladies had a vision, and purchased acreage along the bluff that is now Historical Riverside Park, our hidden gem.  Over 80 acres of beautifully landscaped park includes a large public swimming pool, playground equipment, shelter houses, 10,000 s.f. community center, tennis courts, basketball court, RV park, ball fields, and home of the Labette County Fairgrounds. It is the perfect location for family reunions, weddings, company events and picnics, and other organized events.