Spokane River Flows Meet Level 2 Drought Response

Spokane River levels have dropped below 1,000 cubic feet per second, prompting the city to enforce Level 2 watering restrictions under a 2022 ordinance. Residents must limit outdoor watering to two days per week and avoid watering between 10 a. m. and 6 p. m.

, with a maximum of two hours of watering per day. Public Works Director Marlene Feist highlighted the collective impact of small conservation efforts on protecting the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, the city's main drinking water source. The Water Wise Spokane program is available to provide free water consultations to help residents and businesses reduce their consumption. Spokane uses four times the national average of water during summer months, making conservation efforts critical. Half of the water that replenishes the local aquifer comes from the Spokane River, underscoring the need for responsible water use.

Community engagement has resulted in 45. 5 million gallons saved in 2024, showcasing the effectiveness of the conservation programs. The city encourages ongoing participation to further enhance water conservation efforts.