Water Resource Planning in the Yakima River Basin: Development vs. Sustainability

摘要: Water resource management in the agriculturally rich Yakima River Basin is at a crossroads. The vast majority of surface water withdrawals basin are used for irrigation, but current supplies frequently inadequate to meet this need. recently proposed comprehensive Watershed Management Plan relies on building major new storage facilities, and $6.5 million federal state funding was secured 2003 study huge dam reservoir. Yet local users cannot pay $2 billion structure, national attitude toward moving from development paradigm recognition that have limits. Initiatives consistent with latter approach include minimum instream flow targets, use efficiency improvement programs, making it easier voluntarily transfer rights. Future issues not yet been addressed will also affect supply planning, possible set forth recommended series actions can be taken now. complex suite present as early 2004 should inform elsewhere West.