Odessa Subarea Special Study

The Odessa Subarea Special Study is investigating the possibility of continuing phased development of the Columbia Basin Project to deliver surface water from the project to lands currently using groundwater in the Odessa Subarea. The Odessa Subarea Special Study will not address the full development of the Columbia Basin Project at this time.

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 being affected. In response to the public’s concern about the declining aquifer and associated economic and other effects, Congress has authorized funding for Reclamation to investigate the problem.

The State of Washington, represented by the Department of Ecology, and Reclamation are the co-leads in the Odessa Special Study. Reclamation and Ecology will jointly prepare a draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) which complies with both National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) requirements. Reclamation and Ecology are also cost share partners for the Study.

More information about the study>>

Draft Environmental Impact Statement & Related Documents>>

Alternative Components Map

Environmental Compliance Handouts

Charles Carnohan
(509) 575-5848 x 603
odessa@usbr.gov

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