October, 2026 PBAC Meeting

The October meeting of the Palouse Basin Aquifer Committee focused on updates regarding the Clearwater Diversion feasibility study, conservation, and outreach. Public concerns regarded the potential high operational costs of the Clearwater River Diversion project and urged the committee to advocate for stricter landscape irrigation controls and xeriscaping in new developments. Jeff Hansen from HDR Engineering provided a technical update on the Clearwater River Supplemental Supply Study, noting positive coordination with the City of Lewiston regarding potential collaboration on intake and water rights. Sarah Olson from PBAC reported on water conservation outreach events and social media engagement, while Tyler Palmer with the City of Moscow announced upcoming presentations in Boise regarding the Palouse River Basin adjudication. Mike Faupel with PBAC discussed central themes from the Clearwater Diversion Study Stakeholder Engagement Group, where public feedback centered on cost, conservation, and public involvement. The technical subcommittee discussed progress on the draft report for the Diversion Study and a meeting with IDWR regarding monitoring wells in the Idaho portion of the basin. The finance subcommittee noted that the $182,500 in funds from the Water Resource Board had been exhausted. Mike Faupel provided an update on the upcoming Palouse Basin Water Summit, and Tyler Palmer announced a confirmed visit to the Nez Perce Tribal Executive Committee's Natural Resource Subcommittee. Isaac Hall with the University of Idaho reported that all 55 well samples for the passive aquifer recharge project had been collected and most lab results were back.