Water Resources > Instream Flows In Washington

Instream Flows In Washington

The term "instream flow" is used to identify a specific stream flow (typically measured in cubic feet per second, or cfs) at a specific location for a defined time, and typically following seasonal variations. Instream flows are usually defined as the stream flows needed to protect and preserve instream resources and values, such as fish, wildlife and recreation. Instream flows are most often described and established in a formal legal document, typically an adopted state rule.

• Map of Existing and Future Instream Flow Rules and USGS Gages - January 2008

The Science Behind Instream Flows

Scientific methods for determining how much water fish need, instream Flow Study (technical) Guidelines, River and stream flow monitoring

Protecting Our Stream Flows--Growing Needs for Water: Sharing a Limited Supply

Learn the basics about stream flows and instream flows, and why they are important

Laws and Rules

Instream flow rules recently adopted or under development, primary statutes and legal basis related to instream flows

Resources and Studies

Includes maps, publications, studies, links to other sites.

Washington Water Acquisition Program

An opportunity for water-right holders to voluntarily participate in salmon recovery by selling, leasing or donating their water.

Contacts:

Technical or scientific questions about instream flows:

Brad Caldwell Department of Ecology, HQ (360) 407-6639 brca461@ecy.wa.gov

Dr. Hal Beecher Department of Fish & Wildlife (360) 902-2421 beechhab@dfw.wa.gov

Policy and instream flow rule questions:

Brian Walsh Department of Ecology (360) 407-6647 bwal461@ecy.wa.gov