Woe is H2O

Oh, water. We like to drink it, flush it, clean with it, sprinkle it sparingly on our lawns, and even share it with our animal friends. We like it clean, we like it abundant, and we like it now.

Unfortunately, water supplies are being stretched and the resulting competition for diminishing supply is causing major conflicts. Especially in Eastern Washington where demand is exacerbated by agricultural and livestock operations.

The issue is complex and affects rural families, ranchers, tribes, and other interests. As described in this article, at heart of much of the discussion is a long-standing exemption that allows unlimited use of water for livestock. The state Department of Ecology worries the exemption is being abused by some dairy and feedlot operators who should be seeking a permit to draw up groundwater.

The Legislature took up the issue earlier this year though not much happened in the way of legislation.

What did happen was the formation of a new Stock Water Working Group, a committee made up of folks from the farming and enviro communities, state agencies, federal government and Native American tribes. State Reps. John McCoy and Brian Blake will serve on the group which is tasked with providing recommendations for the Legislature to consider next session.

McCoy says he's "committed to finding strategies for responsible and realistic water-conservation. " The committee has until December to come up with such strategies so stay tuned as discussions unfold.

And may we offer you a glass of water while you wait?