SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane County residents are considering a measure that could impact their drinking water supply.
The proposal aims to renew and expand the Aquifer Protection Area, which includes the City of Spokane, to ensure protection of the Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer, the region’s sole source of drinking water.
If approved, the measure will secure necessary funding for aquifer protection and regional water quality efforts, including pollution monitoring, and tracking water trends.
The tax would remain the same. Households will pay $1.25 per month per equivalent residential unit for withdrawal of water.
A residential parcel with a single-family home pays $15 in urban areas and $30 in rural areas, annually.
NonStop Local’s John Webb toured the Upriver Dam-Aquifer well. Constructed in 1907, it is Spokane’s first ever well. It’s now solely used for viewing the aquifer.
A visit to the site revealed the beauty of the aquifer, with crystal-clear blue water visible at the bottom of a 40-foot well.
Aquifer levels change with the rivers, leading to watering restrictions in the summer when river levels are low.
Many residents remain unaware of how close the aquifer is to their daily activities.
The importance of careful handling of chemicals and petroleum products was highlighted to prevent contamination.
The pump station at this site pushes 13,500 gallons of water per minute, powered by a 1,000-horsepower motor.
Uniquely, a dam on the Spokane River powers these pumps, ensuring efficient water delivery.
In August, Spokane voters will decide whether to renew the Aquifer Protection Area.
To learn more, visit this link.
