Spokane River Flows Meet Level 2 Drought Response

Spokane River levels have fallen below 1,000 cubic feet per second, leading to the activation of Level 2 watering restrictions as specified in a 2022 city ordinance. Under these rules, residents must limit outdoor watering to two days per week and avoid watering during peak hours from 10 a. m. to 6 p. m.

Public Works Director Marlene Feist highlighted the significance of small collective actions in safeguarding the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, which serves as the city's drinking water source. The Water Wise Spokane program offers residents and businesses free consultations to assist in reducing water use throughout the year. Spokane's summer water consumption is four times higher than the national average, underscoring the urgency of conservation measures. Since its inception, the Water Wise Spokane program has saved over 344 million gallons of water through educational outreach. Community efforts led to the conservation of 45.

5 million gallons of water in 2024 alone. These initiatives demonstrate the city's commitment to sustainable water management and the protection of vital water resources.