KENNEWICK, Wash. – The Kennewick Irrigation District (KID) is adjusting to a new normal as the water supply for the area has dropped to just below half of the full capacity needed. This change is something the district has been preparing for.
“The good news is, KID since 2015 has been planning on a drier future,” Secretary District Manager Shane Leonard stated.
Residents in Kennewick, a warm and dry community, are being informed about the new normal for their water supply this season. The area currently stands at 48% of a full water supply.
“They are telling us right now we’re at 48% of a full bucket. So if you take a look at it, we see a gallon of water. We have a little less than half a gallon of water to get us through the rest of the season,” said Leonard.
He explained that this year’s 48% capacity is among the lowest water supply levels recorded since tracking began in the 1970s. “This is what we’ve come to expect because of climate change, less precipitation in the basin, as well as less return flows coming into the system that we would depend upon,” Leonard stated.
For Kennewick residents concerned about the impact, Leonard reassured that the city is not moving to a mandatory water usage schedule. “I’d like to reaffirm that we are still asking folks to follow the voluntary schedule,” Leonard said.
“The good news is that… we will not have to go into mandatory schedule anytime in the near future.” However, Leonard emphasized the importance of water conservation. “Just because we’re not going to mandatory, doesn’t mean that you should be running 24 over seven, or your neighbor sidewalk, or the street next to you,” Leonard reminded. “Be mindful of where your water is going.”
The district plans to communicate effectively with the community, as the reality is that fewer 100% water supply years are expected. For those with questions or concerns about water usage, KID will host open house and Q&A events. More information can be found at KID.org.
