WRIA 1 Water Rights Adjudication
Use a well, stream, or lake in the Nooksack Watershed? You must file a legal claim by May 1, 2026. Homeowners, farmers, and business owners.
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What's Happening & Why It Matters
Live in WRIA 1 and use a well, stream, or lake? You must file a legal claim for your water use by May 1, 2026. Certified mail was sent in March 2025, and over 850 claims have already been submitted. Filing early is strongly recommended — your involvement is essential to protect your rights.
What Is Adjudication?
A legal process to determine who has the right to use water, and in what amount. It protects existing users and ensures sustainable management.
What Is WRIA 1?
The Nooksack Basin — it collects water from rain and snow. Anyone using water from wells, lakes, or streams here is part of WRIA 1.
📢 August 2025 Hearing Update
The Washington Department of Ecology and Whatcom County Superior Court have confirmed that funding is secured and the process is moving forward as planned. The May 1, 2026 deadline remains unchanged.
Well Pump Maintenance & Your Water Rights
A properly functioning well pump demonstrates ongoing, beneficial use — a key factor in adjudication. Service records, pressure testing, and pump replacements create documentation that can support your claim if it's reviewed.
Create Records
Invoices and logs prove active, ongoing water use over time.
Support Your Claim
Documentation is critical if your claim is reviewed or questioned.
Prevent Gaps
Failures interrupt use — gaps that complicate proving consistency.
LaVergne's Plumbing — Well Pump Service & Documentation
Common Myths vs. Facts
"My well is permit-exempt, so I don't need to file."
You do — exempt doesn't mean exempt from adjudication.
"I didn't get a summons, so I'm not involved."
You may still need to file if you use water in WRIA 1.
"It's just a government formality."
It's a legal process that could impact your right to water.
How to File Your Claim
Understand Your Role
You've been identified as someone using water from wells, streams, or lakes in WRIA 1. Filing secures your legal water use rights.
Review Your Packet
Your packet includes a summons, instructions, and a court claim form. These are essential for completing your claim.
Fill Out the Form
- Your unique six-digit adjudication ID number
- Names of all property owners (all must sign)
- Allow 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete
Gather Resources
- Use water use calculators from Whatcom County
- Check the WRIA 1 map tool for existing documents
- Retrieve your well report (depth, tag number)
File Your Form
Submit online, in-person, or by mail. $25 filing fee ($1 service fee online). Fee waiver available at the court if needed.
Form Sections Explained
| Section | What to Include |
|---|---|
| Part A — Names | All people or entities who own the property where water is used. |
| Part B — Signatures | Every claimant in Part A must sign at the end of the form. |
| Part C — Small Households | ≤ 500 gal/day for indoor use. Lawn/garden up to ½ acre. Not for farming or business. |
| Part D — Commercial / Larger | Stream, river, or lake water. Farming/business use. 500+ gal/day. Irrigation over ½ acre. |
⚠️ Don't Delay
Keep your receipt. Although you have until May 1, 2026, early submission protects your rights without last-minute stress.
Video Resources
Official recordings to help you understand the process and file your claim.
Adjudication Overview
What it is, who it affects, and why it matters.
How to File Your Claim
Step-by-step walkthrough of the court claim form.
Full Webinar
FAQs, deadlines, documentation, and community Q&A.
Farmers & Business Owners
Washington Department of Ecology
For Farmers
- Submit logs, crop records, and irrigation maps
- Use Water Use Calculator for estimates
- Attend ag-focused workshops (Farm Bureau, WSU)
For Business Owners
- File if you use water for operations or landscape
- Document daily/seasonal usage
- Provide invoices, utility records, or permit info
What Happens Next
You'll receive confirmation of your submission.
The court may request additional details later.
Your claim will be reviewed over several years.
You may be invited to mediation if there's a conflict.
DOE Resources & Free Support
Appointments at Ecology's Bellingham Field Office. Sign up for the Nooksack Adjudication e-newsletter.
Protect Your Water Rights Today
Need well pump maintenance to support your claim? Call LaVergne's Plumbing — family owned since 1951, serving Whatcom & Skagit Counties.