Clallam County officials are taking significant steps to address water resource management challenges during the recent Charter Review Commission Water Committee Meeting held on April 18, 2025. A key focus of the meeting was the need for improved coordination and planning among various water systems in the county, particularly in light of changing climate conditions and the unique regulatory landscape of different watersheds.

The discussion highlighted the importance of a water steward role that would work closely with the Public Utility District (PUD) to utilize the existing water system plan effectively. This plan is designed to operate within the constraints of Washington State's water laws, ensuring that water rights are managed sustainably. However, the PUD clarified that it does not conduct hydrogeological evaluations, which are typically the responsibility of state agencies or entities like the U.S. Geological Survey.

One of the pressing issues raised was the disparity in regulation between the Dungeness River basin, which is heavily regulated, and other less-regulated basins in Clallam County. Participants expressed concerns about potential gaps in data and the need for more comprehensive information on these other basins to ensure sustainable water management.

The PUD is actively exploring ways to enhance the efficiency of water systems, including reducing leaks and ensuring that water withdrawals are put to beneficial use. There is also a growing interest in groundwater resources, with discussions about potential partnerships for shallow aquifer recharge projects. These initiatives are seen as vital for sustaining water supplies amid increasing climate variability, particularly as the region experiences longer, drier summers.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the historical context of watershed planning in the area, noting that previous plans had been vetoed and never implemented. There is a call for renewed efforts to reactivate watershed planning beyond the Dungeness, which could facilitate better coordination among stakeholders, including agricultural interests and ecological needs.

As Clallam County moves forward, the emphasis on collaborative water resource management and the integration of climate data into planning processes will be crucial for ensuring the sustainability of water supplies for both current and future generations. The PUD expressed its commitment to ongoing dialogue and collaboration with community stakeholders to address these critical water issues effectively.