As climate change continues to impact King County and the broader Pacific Northwest, the City of North Bend remains steadfast in its commitment to water conservation. With various initiatives in place to preserve this vital resource, the City is taking proactive steps to address the region’s ongoing water scarcity issues.
One of the key initiatives implemented by the City is the Water Conservation Ordinance (WCO), which began in 2020. This ordinance aims to promote conservation education and awareness among residents, benefiting not only the North Bend community but also the entire Snoqualmie Valley. The WCO is a proactive approach to addressing the challenges posed by water scarcity in the region.
In April 2024, the Washington State Department of Ecology declared a drought emergency as the state’s water supply dropped below 75% of normal levels. An unusually warm spring accelerated snowmelt in the upper Snoqualmie River watershed, further straining the region’s water resources. In response to this crisis, Stage 1 of the WCO will be implemented starting Thursday, August 15.
The WCO applies to all property owners within the City limits and all North Bend water customers, regardless of location. It includes guidelines for irrigation, hand/manual watering, drip irrigation systems, and recreational water use. By following these guidelines, residents can contribute to water conservation efforts and help protect the Snoqualmie River.
Examples of wasteful water use that are prohibited under the WCO include water runoff from over-irrigation, free-flowing hoses, pool and pond draining and refilling (except for health, maintenance, or structural reasons), and washing concrete surfaces. Monitoring and compliance with the WCO are essential to ensure the success of water conservation efforts in North Bend.
While the City does not monitor water usage or issue fines for initial violations, continued non-compliance could result in penalties. If a violation is observed, the City will first contact the person verbally or in writing. Depending on the severity and recurrence of violations, fines ranging from $50 to $200 per day may be imposed. Residents will be informed of subsequent stages of the WCO through official announcements on the City’s website and social media channels.
To learn more about the Water Conservation Ordinance and Stage 1 guidelines, residents are encouraged to visit the City of North Bend’s website at www.northbendwa.gov/166/Water-Conservation. By actively participating in water conservation efforts, residents can make a positive impact on the environment and help ensure the sustainability of water resources in the region.