Spokane River Flows Meet Level 2 Drought Response

Spokane River levels have fallen below 1,000 cubic feet per second, prompting the city to enforce Level 2 watering restrictions. The ordinance, passed in 2022, mandates that residents limit outdoor watering to two days a week and prohibits watering between 10 a. m. and 6 p. m.

Public Works Director Marlene Feist highlighted that protecting Spokane River flows is vital for the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, the primary drinking water source. The city’s Water Wise Spokane program provides free consultations for water conservation, aiming to reduce usage throughout the year. Spokane's summer water consumption is four times the national average, underscoring the need for these conservation measures. Since its inception, the Water Wise Spokane initiative has saved over 344 million gallons of water. Thanks to community efforts, 45.

5 million gallons were conserved in 2024 alone. The city urges residents to adopt these practices to safeguard their water resources.