Washington looking for solutions to looming water challenges

Washington state is launching Washington’s Water Future, a statewide initiative to address persistent drought challenges affecting the region. State Ecology Director Casey Sixkiller announced the effort Wednesday, with roundtable discussions planned across the state this summer to deliver recommendations to Gov. Bob Ferguson before the 2027 legislative session. The initiative will explore solutions including water recycling, aquifer recharge projects, and desalination as climate change reduces snowpack and creates what officials call Washington’s “new normal.”