Water Rights Case Finally Coming To An End Open House Planned

If you're a Yakima Native it's likely you've heard of the The historic Ecology v. James Acquavella, et al adjudication determining and confirming all surface water rights in the Yakima River Basin. Good news came today from the Department of Ecology who says the case will soon be final. A news release from ecology today says an open house is scheduled for 5-7 p.m., Sept. 6, 2017, at Ecology’s Central Regional Office, 1250 W. Alder St., Union Gap, where people can ask questions about their water rights and learn more about the process including deadlines for filing objections.

Nearly 2,500 water rights in 31 subbasins (tributary watersheds) for individuals and about 30 major claimants, including irrigation districts, cities, federal projects (Reclamation and Forest Service) and the Yakama Indian Nation, have been meticulously substantiated.

The adjudication settles old conflicts and reduces future conflicts, protects confirmed rights, and increases value to a water right holder.