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WA State Dept. of Ecology Declares State-wide Drought Emergency
April 25, 2024

Washington State Department of Ecology Declares State-wide Drought Emergency

PUD #1 of Clallam County (PUD) is requesting that water utility customers prepare to conserve water this year in response to a State-wide drought emergency declaration from the Department of Ecology.

On April 16, 2024 Washington State Department of Ecology declared a State-wide drought emergency due to low snowpack levels and forecasted impacts to drinking water supplies, agricultural irrigation, fisheries and instream resources. More information on Ecology’s drought declaration can be found at:

https://ecology.wa.gov/Water-Shorelines/Water-supply/Water-availability/Statewide-conditions/Drought-response

In response to the forecasted impacts to drinking water supplies, PUD is taking the following actions to ensure our drought readiness and resiliency:

  • Activating a Stage 1 Drought Response in accordance with the PUD Drought Response Plan
  • Preparing groundwater wells which we will rely upon when surface water flows are low
  • Exploring grant opportunities to fund improvements to our drought resiliency and preparation
  • Educating customers on ways to save water:
    • Limiting outdoor water use for irrigation
    • Finding and fixing leaks in household plumbing and irrigation systems
    • Installing water efficient fixtures and appliances
    • Washing vehicles and boats at a carwash that recycles its water

For a comprehensive list of actions to save water or to access more information on water conservation go to https://home-water-works.org/water-conservation-tips/home.

Stay tuned for additional news releases related to the PUD 2024 Drought Response. With preparation, communication and conservation, the PUD is committed to our mission of providing our customers with reliable water service through the 2024 drought.