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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How to plan for water use at your Yakima Basin cabin

With a hot, dry season ahead – and likely more in the coming years – make sure you know if you can legally use water at your camp or cabin in the Yakima Basin, and that your use is mitigated.

Drought update: water supply in the Yakima Basin and what it means for you

If you live in the Yakima Basin, you know things are looking hot and dry with the irrigation season well under way. Here’s what you need to know about the drought and what it means for your water.

Up to $10.7 million is still available for water banking projects

Eligibility has expanded for Ecology's Water Banking Pilot Grants.

Reflecting on World Water Day and protecting Washington’s freshwater resources

Celebrating World Water Day and reflecting on Ecology's role in protecting state freshwater resources

Supporting a drier Yakima Basin in 2024

The Yakima Basin is heading into summer with a projected 72 percent of normal water supply. Here's how we're preparing for reduced water supply and minimizing the impacts on people, fish, and farms.

Water Supply Update

Washington's drought shows no sign of ending as we approach spring. 

July drought declaration still in effect

Despite January winter storms, snowpack and water supply forecasts are below normal according to the experts who recently gathered for the first Water Supply Availability Committee Meeting of 2024.

Questions about the Nooksack adjudication?

Ecology is hosting a Jan. 31 webinar to answer questions about the Nooksack water rights adjudication.

Ecology offering $1.8 million in grants for drought preparedness

Washington has seen a recent increase in both the frequency and severity of droughts. In anticipation of more, Ecology will soon offer $1.8 million in drought planning and preparedness grants.

Water Supply Update — time to start thinking about water supplies in 2024

Warmer than normal temperatures combined with lower than normal precipitation means the drought is ongoing, and may be here to stay a while.