Spokane River Flows Meet Level 2 Drought Response

Spokane River levels have fallen below 1,000 cubic feet per second, activating Level 2 watering restrictions as per a city ordinance passed in 2022. Residents must adhere to new rules that prohibit outdoor watering from 10 a. m. to 6 p. m.

and limit watering to two days a week, with no more than two hours of watering allowed each day. Public Works Director Marlene Feist highlighted the significance of these steps in safeguarding the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, the city's primary drinking water source. The city's Water Wise Spokane program provides free consultations for residents and businesses to help reduce water use throughout the year. Spokane utilizes four times the national average water consumption during summer months, which underscores the critical need for conservation efforts. Historical data shows that half of the aquifer's recharge comes from the Spokane River.

Thanks to community engagement, conservation initiatives saved 45. 5 million gallons of water in 2024, demonstrating the impact of collective action. The city’s ongoing efforts aim to ensure sustainable water use amidst changing environmental conditions.