Bear Creek Managed Aquifer Recharge

The purpose of this project is to increase flow in Bear Creek and the Little Spokane River during low flow periods. This is accomplished by
diverting water during high flow periods into an off-channel infiltration gallery. This raises the groundwater table above what would normally occur and increases groundwater discharge to surface water. The project proposes to divert 1 cfs (cubic feet per second) over a three month period for a total of 182 acre-ft per year. A preliminary field investigation and design has been completed for the project.

In 2020 Spokane County received a Streamflow Restoration Grant from the Washington Department of Ecology to conduct supplemental field investigations, complete final design and permitting, and construct the project. The County anticipates constructing the project during summer of 2022.