The Spokane River/Lake Spokane Dissolved Oxygen Water Quality Improvement Plan will lead to reducing phosphorus pollution from industrial and municipal pipes by more than 90%. Due to the sensitivity of the Spokane River system, the phosphorous limits for industrial and municipal discharges are among the most stringent in the country.
 

The improvement plan includes a long-term monitoring program for the river and lake so that improvements can be measured. It also includes strong incentives for investing in water conservation efforts that also will help protect water quality.
 

Kelly Susewind, Water Quality Program Manager said: “This document will lead to noticeable improvements in the aesthetics and productivity of the Spokane River and Lake Spokane while contributing to investments in Spokane’s economy. We are eager to move from planning into doing and start measuring success in the watershed.”
 

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has received the plan for final approval and has 30 days to review it and notify the Washington Department of Ecology of its decision.