Water resources

We manage the state's water supply to meet the needs of people and the natural environment, in partnership with Washington communities. Water availability is increasingly limited in Washington.

Search Blog Posts

119 results.

Olympic Peninsula classified as being in severe drought by federal drought monitor

In response to current conditions, some communities and water systems on the peninsula have already begun anticipating low water supply.

Water curtailments for the Chehalis River basin

This is the fifth consecutive year we've issued curtailment orders or notices for junior surface water irrigation uses in the Chehalis basin to comply with regulatory requirements. 

After 40 years, Acquavella adjudication is coming to close

The upcoming May 9, 2019, "‘water day" in Yakima County Superior Court is one we’ve been working toward for more than 40 years.

Water supply issues could be a reality for North-Central Washington

The Methow and Okanogan basins in North-Central Washington near the Canada border are projected to experience some water supply shortages.

Big gains in snowpack, but still below normal

Before the infamous 2019 snowpocalypse hit, some of the state’s water supply experts were experiencing mild heartburn over the outlook of water supply for the year.

Irrigation association honors Columbia River office director

Tom Tebb, director of Ecology's Office of Columbia River, received special recognition during the Washington State Water Resources Association (WSWRA) annual conference.

Wood Fiesta: Improving floodplains in Yakima watershed

Dubbed the "Wood Fiesta," large wood is being helicoptered into remote and rugged terrain and placed in streams and floodplains to help improve habitat for native fish species.

Floating the Yakima River with a purpose

Warm water is becoming all too common in the summer months. So much so, that we have teams floating the river to document refuges of cooler water.

Watching the water supply

Months of unusually warm and dry weather continue to put pressure on the state’s rivers and streams.

Watching the water supply update

70 percent of the state is abnormally dry, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor.