Tighter regulations approved for septic tanks along Spokane River and other shorelines

October 15th

The WA Department of Ecology has approved an amendment to the Spokane County (County) Shoreline Master Program (SMP) which, except for unique circumstances, doesn’t allow installation of septic tanks within 200 feet of the Spokane River and other shorelines in Spokane County.

The amendment resulted from the Spokane Riverkeeper, Lands Council, and Trout Unlimited appealing Spokane County’s shoreline plan in March, 2013. Said Spokane Riverkeeper Jerry White, “Protecting the river from phosphorus and other pollutants of concern is the best way to protect the ecological integrity of the river while also making sure it’s a place people can swim, fish and paddle. For the 78% of the public who said in public opinion poll it’s “very important” that the Spokane River be protected and/or cleaned up, this is a win.”