Washington Water Watch: September 2021

Dear friends,
As we are finally starting to see rain again, we reflect on a surprising water year. Hydrologist track and measure water on a different time cycle than a standard calendar year. A water year is measured from October 1st through September 30th. As a new water year is about to start we look back to see what patterns might continue.
This summer showed us that even in years with great winter and spring snowpack, our waters are in trouble. With extreme heat and parched land, snowpack melted quickly. Areas that don’t rely on snowpack, but rather precipitation, are in even more trouble since they received below average precipitation for much of the year. As drought seasons become longer and temperatures warmer, this pattern will continue. Low flows, warm rivers, dry wells, and more will continue to be bigger issues for everyone.
CELP will continue to work for better water management and not let progress towards water conservation and water use efficiency take the back burner during the rainy season. More needs to be done for our waters. We all rely on healthy, abundant waterways.
10 years ago in September the world’s largest dam removal project was started on the Elwha River. Dam removal has helped restore the estuary, river, and wildlife but recovery is ongoing. Now as more dams projects are proposed, CELP continues to fight for our rivers, fish, and treaty rights. We are working to help stop the Chehalis River dam project and encourage alternative approaches for flood management. Our waters need protected for salmon, the environment, and our communities.
In this issue you will find an introduction to CELP’s newest Board Members, an update on the Chehalis River, Information on Ecology’s grants, water and fish news, and upcoming events.
Sincerely,
Trish Rolfe, Executive Director

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