Spokane-Rathdrum Aquifer Study

Preliminary Project Scope

March 2002

Idaho Department of Water ResourcesIdaho Department of Environmental QualityIdaho Water Resources Research Institute

Washington Department of EcologyWashington Water Research Institute

Spokane Valley-Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer Study

Stakeholder MeetingAt The Dog Track

June 20, 2002

What Were We Thinking?

Study Purpose?

What questions should the proposed comprehensive bi-state study answer?

• What is the size and shape of the aquifer?

• What are the hydraulic properties of the aquifer?

• What is the total quantity of water in the aquifer?

• How does the quantity of water in the aquifer change through time, both seasonally and annually?

• What is the relationship between the aquifer and the Spokane River?

• What are the critical parameters that influence interaction of the aquifer and river?

• How does the water table determine exchange of water between the aquifer and river?

• How much water is currently being withdrawn from the aquifer?

• What is the water being used for?

• Where are the withdrawals located?

• Is there any influence on river flow based on pumping location and amount?

• What computer model can we use to describe the interaction of the aquifer and the river and lakes?

• How do we calibrate a model with observed data?

• Can we develop a model that will evaluate different recharge-discharge scenarios?

• Will the computer model be accessible for everyone to use?

Success

Achieved the primary study objective of developing a comprehensive knowledge

base and accompanying data to provide an improved scientific basis for making wise water management decisions in the future

More Success

• Can we successfully conduct the study in a cooperative spirit?

• Can we do the study transparently, in an open public process?

• Can we distribute information to all stakeholders on a regular basis?

• Can we hold more meetings?

Failure

• Can we please break down technical information into easily understandable English?

• Can we establish information kiosks throughout Idaho and Washington?

• Can we follow Dave Tuthill’s decision model?

• Where will the repository for the data generated during this study study be located?

• How will the computer model be maintained?

• How do we develop a long-term monitoring program?

• How will this study interface with future aquifer research?

What’s Next?

• What is the sustainable yield of the aquifer?

• What is the optimum groundwater pumping network that will minimize impacts on the aquifer and river?

• What can we manage the aquifer to maintain a sufficient base flow in the river?

• How can the resource be protected until we make water management decisions?

What’s Next?

• What will the impact of climate change be on the aquifer and river?

• What are some possible aquifer recharge scenarios?

• What are some possible mitigation scenarios to increase flows in the river?

• How would a big earthquake impact water in the aquifer?

What’s Next?

• What is the extent of regulatory controls on the aquifer and river?

• What is the compliance rate for regulatory controls?

What’s Next?

Can we keep the momentum going?

What’s Next?