Odessa Subarea Special Study

The Odessa Subarea Special Study is investigating the possibility of continued phased development of the Columbia Basin Project to deliver surface water from the Project to lands currently using groundwater in the Odessa Subarea. The aquifer in the Odessa Subarea is declining to such an extent that the ability of farmers to irrigate their crops is at risk. Domestic, commercial, municipal, and industrial uses and water quality are also affected. In response to the State of Washington’s and the public’s concern about the declining aquifer and associated socioeconomic effects, Congress has authorized funding for Reclamation to investigate the problem. The State of Washington, represented by the Department of Ecology, with the Bureau of Reclamation, are co-leads and cost-share partners in the Odessa Subarea Special Study. The co-leads jointly prepared and released to the public a Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on August 31, 2012, in compliance with both National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) requirements. Alternative 4A, Modified Partial Groundwater Replacement Alternative - Banks, has been selected as the Preferred Alternative in the Final EIS.

More information about the study>>

Final Environmental Impact Statement & Related Documents>>

Draft Environmental Impact Statement & Related Documents>>

Alternative Components Map

Environmental Compliance Handouts

Wendy Christensen
(509) 575-5848 x 203
odessa@usbr.gov

Bureau of Reclamation
Pacific Northwest Region
Columbia-Cascades Area Office
1917 Marsh Road
Yakima, WA 98901-2058