There are a number of ways to be involved in helping address these declines and meeting future water needs, which include:
Participate in data gathering efforts - Department staff are working with water users to gather water level and water use data. Understanding the groundwater flow system and the water balance is the first step toward making decisions about future water management. If you haven't met with Department staff regarding well measurement, you are encouraged to speak with staff at the meetings, or contact Jen Woody at 503-437-5173 or
Jennifer.L.Woody@water.oregon.gov.
Local discussions - The Department is planning, in coordination with WA-Ecology, a public meeting in March 2023. This meeting will provide a venue to hear updates from Department staff as well as to learn about opportunities to participate in the study. More information will be provided about this meeting will be posted when available.
Past meetings have reviewed the rule changes adopted in 2017, and provided information about flowmeter requirements and flowmeter funding assistance programs. To join an email list and receive notices about future community meetings, public comment opportunities, and other announcements about the Walla Walla Subbasin sign up for the Walla Walla Sub-Basin email topic in GovDelivery.