Spokane River Flows Meet Level 2 Drought Response
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~ Spokane City Council has recently passed a new water conservation ordinance in 2022, recommending changes in water use to protect the Spokane River. The ordinance was triggered by a drop in the river's levels to below 1,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), as reported by the US Geological Survey (USGS).

According to Kirstin Davis, Public Works Communications Manager, the recommended changes are a collective effort to protect the city's drinking water source, the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer. "Collective small steps make a big difference, and this is a seasonal reminder that anything we can do to protect Spokane River flows benefits our drinking water source," said Public Works Director Marlene Feist.

The Level 2 suggested watering rules outlined in the ordinance include no outdoor watering between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., limiting watering to two days per week, and no more than two hours of watering per day. Additionally, using water to clean hardscapes such as sidewalks, driveways, decks, and patios is prohibited.

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These rules are not new for Spokane residents as they are already in place every summer between June 1st and October 1st under Level 1 restrictions. However, with the current drop in river levels, it is crucial for residents to follow these guidelines.

To further assist residents and businesses in reducing their water use year-round, the City's Water Wise Spokane program offers free indoor and outdoor water consultations. Since its inception, this program has saved over 344 million gallons of water through education, outreach, and training.

Some fast facts about Spokane's water usage include using four times more water during summer months than the national average and half of the water that recharges the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer comes from the Spokane River. Thanks to strong community participation in conservation programs like Water Wise Spokane, over 45 million gallons of water were saved in 2024.

The City of Spokane urges its residents to be mindful of their water usage and follow the recommended watering rules to protect the Spokane River and preserve the city's drinking water source. By working together, small steps can make a big difference in conserving this vital resource.

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