Cascade began its refill of the Lake Tapps Reservoir on March 13. The improvements and enhancements to the system work well, enabling Cascade to maximize water diverted from the White River.

While the system works, nature hasn’t been cooperative. The area has had very little precipitation.  Governor Inslee has declared a drought emergency in much of the State, including east Pierce County. The area is experiencing all-time low flows in the White River (not much above the minimum flow requirements in Cascade’s State Water Rights) and this presents a serious challenge. Despite these circumstances Cascade has already put 5.5 billion gallons of water into the lake. However, 10.7 billion more are needed.

Although Cascade is putting every available drop of water into the reservoir – currently about 50 million gallons per day – the reservoir will not be filled by Memorial Day due to lack of precipitation.

“Cascade understands and shares the community’s disappointment. Cascade is committed to working with the community and to keeping residents up to date at each step of the way,” says Chuck Clarke, Cascade CEO.

For current refill status visit  http://cascadewater.org/project-overview.php and for lake levels visit http://cascadewater.org/lake_tapps_recreational_lake_levels.php For updates check Cascade’s Facebook page or follow us on Twitter.