Celebrating 30 Years of the Spokane Aquifer Joint Board: A Legacy of Water Stewardship

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On April 25, 2025, the Spokane Aquifer Joint Board (SAJB) proudly marks its 30th anniversary, celebrating three decades of collaboration and dedication to protecting the Spokane Valley–Rathdrum Prairie (SVRP) Aquifer. This aquifer is designated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a “sole source aquifer” and supplies clean drinking water to more than 600,000 residents in Washington and Idaho.

Our Mission

Founded in 1995, the SAJB is a coalition of 21 water providers working together with a shared mission:

To preserve and protect the Spokane Valley–Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer through coordinated management, public education, and proactive stewardship.

Through shared resources, long-term planning, and strong partnerships, SAJB has become a national model for community-based aquifer protection.

Key Accomplishments Over 30 Years

Education & Public Outreach

The SAJB has invested heavily in aquifer education, reaching thousands of residents and students each year. Through various efforts and campaigns, SAJB has contributed to the education of the public on how everyday actions — like fertilizer use, chemical disposal, or vehicle maintenance — can impact groundwater quality.

Additionally, SAJB partners with organizations like KSPS PBS to provide aquifer-focused classroom workshops that teach youth how to be responsible water stewards.

Scientific Monitoring & Infrastructure Protection

SAJB has led and supported numerous efforts in:

  • Wellhead protection planning
  • Updating and maintaining the Aquifer Atlas through regular investments and updates using best available science
  • Monitoring potential contaminant sources annually, offering ample preparation in case of contamination

Regional Collaboration

Over the past 30 years, SAJB has helped unify local governments, utilities, and agencies through shared water protection goals. The Board regularly collaborates with entities such as:

These partnerships have expanded public engagement, improved water quality data sharing, and strengthened cross-border planning between Washington and Idaho.

Looking Ahead

As population growth and climate change continue to pressure our shared water resources, the SAJB remains committed to protecting the SVRP Aquifer for future generations. We are grateful for the support of our members, educators, scientists, and the broader community. Thank you for making 30 years of aquifer protection possible — and here’s to the decades ahead.