Washington Drafts River Flow Rules

Hundreds of millions of dollars have been spent to improve the Spokane River’s water quality. Now state regulators say it’s time to ensure that the urban waterway has enough flow to support healthy fish populations and recreational uses. To help achieve that goal, the state Department of Ecology has drafted rules for how much water should flow in the river. They would apply to Spokane County and part of Stevens County. “It’s kind of like a water right for the public,” said Guy Gregory, a hydrogeologist for the Ecology Department. “It protects the surface water uses the public has an interest in.” Public comment will be accepted on the proposal through Nov. 7, with a decision expected by January. But critics already say the agency’s proposal isn’t adequate/ Becky Kramer , SR. More here. (SR photo by Tyler Tjomsland: Gregory Arut fishes on a tranquil portion of the Spokane River on Tuesday south of Nine Mile Falls)

Question: Are you concerned that Washington is drafting flow rules for the Spokane River?