WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — As a legal battle continues over water rights in central Kansas, two communities involved are celebrating a $15.8 million grant that could help them. Hays and Russell are getting the Build Kansas Grant to help pipe water 70 miles from a ranch in Edwards County.

“This investment is crucial for ensuring our community’s long-term sustainability and resilience against drought conditions that have historically challenged our region,” Hays City Manager Toby Dougherty said in a statement.

Kansas water battle: $15.8M for Hays and Russell