By BECKY KISER
Hays Post

RUSSELL — The city of Russell has a diverse business community and is always looking for new companies to locate there, according to Economic and CVB Director Janae Talbott.

“That includes manufacturers, especially those in agri-business, oil production and welding,” Talbott said, “although they can’t be big water users.

“I’m pleased to say that the past two years the city of Russell has implemented a lot of water conservation methods and we’re really seeing a change because of that. However, that’s a short-term change and something we’ll have to continue for years to come to really make an impact.

“Russell is working with the city of Hays (on the R-9 Ranch long-term water source in Edwards County) and how we can pull that water into our communities,” she added. “It’s one of those things that’s going to take a long time to put all the details together for the state and our cities so we can legally transfer the water.”

Russell also tries to help build regional business “clusters.”

“Land Pride (a division of Great Plains Manufacturing) is a good example with locations in Lucas, Tipton, Ellsworth and Salina, as well as Russell. Building a supply chain supports existing manufacturing businesses.

“That helps all of us,” Talbott said.