DEPARTMENT OF ECOLOGY (DOE) PREPARATION FOR ADJUDICATION OF NOOKSAC UNDERWAY

What you need to know to prepare for adjudication of Nooksac to protect your future water rights in the area if you use water outside the public water system in the defined area. Adjudication takes place in a local court process when it is not clear who has rights for water use in a specific area.

Adjudication Steps:

• In Spring of 2024, DOE will send notification through certified mail regarding the adjudication with instructions and a form to be returned upon completion.
• After completion of the form defining your water use, it must be submitted in person, by mail, or online within one year of receipt to the court.
• DOE will review the forms received, notify users if more information is required, and complete a report on user water use after the review is complete.

Be prepared:

• Make sure DOE has record of your water right by completing a water rights search on their website here.
• Be prepared to submit the actual amount of water used from your well or pump.

Questions? Contact DOE by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., call 360-255-4406, or visit the Department of Ecology website here.