Spokane River Flows Meet Level 2 Drought Response
Spokane River levels have triggered Level 2 watering restrictions under a 2022 conservation ordinance, limiting outdoor watering to two days per week. Residents cannot water between 10 a. m. and 6 p. m.
, and cleaning hardscapes with water is prohibited. Public Works Director Marlene Feist noted that community actions play a vital role in conserving river flows and safeguarding the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer. The Water Wise Spokane program offers free consultations to assist residents and businesses in reducing their water usage. Spokane's summer water consumption is four times the national average, and half of the aquifer's recharge comes from the river. Since the program's inception, it has saved over 344 million gallons of water.
In 2024 alone, strong community participation led to a savings of 45. 5 million gallons. These restrictions aim to ensure sustainable water use during critical periods.