Two Washington Dept. of Ecology projects earn recognition during White House Water Summit

The White House Water Summit, run in conjunction with the United Nations World Water Day, recently highlighted two projects led by the Washington Department of Ecology’s Office of Columbia River, which impact the Yakima and Methow river basins.

“In Washington state, we recognize the importance of long-term water security to both our environment and our economy,” Gov. Jay Inslee said. “These projects in Yakima and the Methow Valley represent the crucial balance of needs by protecting natural habitats and wildlife, while supporting family farms, businesses and residents.”

The Yakima Basin Integrated Plan was recognized for its efforts to find management principles that are better both economically and environmentally for waterways. The Methow Instream Flow Improvement Project was honored for its efforts at investing in improving aging water infrastructure, which in the Methow River creates a better habitat for salmon and steelhead.

“I’m thrilled that our efforts in Washington State are producing real results and getting recognized by the White House,” Washington Department of Ecology Director Maia Bellon said. “It’s exciting to know that together with our partners we are solving complex water resource problems that are now models that can be emulated in watersheds nationally and internationally.”