Yakima Basin water management visual model

The Yakima River is a tributary of the Columbia River in central Washington state. The Yakima River watershed is home to some of the most productive agricultural regions in the state, several at-risk salmonid species, and the Yakama Nation reservation. The United States Bureau of Reclamation operates five major storage reservoirs in the watershed, with operating agreements based on agriculture, fisheries, power production and recreation interests. Federal, tribal, state, and local stakeholders developed the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan to collaborate on solutions that protect these interests. However, the basin has faced unprecedented water supply challenges in recent years, with emergency drought declarations spanning from 2023 to 2026.

To foster communication among basin stakeholders, SEI is working on behalf of the Washington Department of Ecology Office of Columbia River, to develop a visual model of the Yakima Basin and its operations. The visual model aims to establish a baseline understanding of basin water management and operations among diverse parties, including public agencies, politicians, irrigation districts, and the Yakama Nation. Such a common understanding can help support effective basin management and guide investments and solutions to navigate ongoing water supply challenges.