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Drought Forces Water Restrictions in Kittitas County

10/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Restrictions take effect Oct. 6 in Kittitas County and several cities due to a three-year drought.
Restrictions apply to junior and senior water rights, including pre-1905 rights.
Cle Elum and South Cle Elum, reliant on the Yakima River, may use emergency wells.
Washington State Department of Ecology halted surface water use to protect fish and senior rights, affecting 1,500 holders.

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Story summary

Restrictions take effect Oct. 6 in Kittitas County and several cities due to a three-year drought.
Restrictions apply to junior and senior water rights, including pre-1905 rights.
Cle Elum and South Cle Elum, reliant on the Yakima River, may use emergency wells.
Washington State Department of Ecology halted surface water use to protect fish and senior rights, affecting 1,500 holders.