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.
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.

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Nooksack adjudication update

30,000 water users in the Nooksack area should soon receive the adjudication  claim forms via certified mail.

Yakima Basin water supply update

The Yakima Basin has had back-to-back droughts in 2023 and 2024. Heading into irrigation season, we are getting a better idea of 2025 conditions and their impacts on the basin.

Nooksack adjudication update

Water users affected by the Nooksack adjudication recently recieved post cards telling them their claim forms will be arriving later this month. 

Washington water supply update

Below normal precipitation compounded with the effects of multiple droughts have experts concerned about this year's conditions. 

Celebrating a legacy: Office of Columbia River Director Tom Tebb embarks on retirement

Tom Tebb is retiring from Ecology after 33 years of service. Let's look back on his remarkable career and lifelong commitment to Washington state and the environment.

New year, same drought

The drought declared in April 2024, is still in effect while experts keep an eye out for signs of improving conditions.  

Applying for a new water right just got a little easier

Water right applicants can now apply for water rights online. 

Water Year 2025

Experts from state and federal agencies gather to discuss the outlook for the coming water year.

Protecting water across state lines in the Walla Walla basin

Learning from a new, innovative program to protect bi-state water transfers this summer.

2024 Water Year in Review

The 2024 water year was marked by low snowpack resulting in drought.