Water For Whatcom Looks To Address NW Washington Issues

A new coalition of farmers, environmental advocates, business leaders and local officials is launching an effort to address water challenges in Washington's Whatcom County.

The group, called Water For Whatcom, is focused on finding collaborative solutions for drought, flooding and other issues affecting the Nooksack River Basin. Members say climate change is intensifying water problems that impact agriculture, fish habitat and communities across the region.

The coalition includes Whatcom Family Farmers leaders Fred Likkel and Rich Appel, along with environmental advocate Carl Weimer, Lynden Mayor Scott Korthuis and others.

“The problems that we face are much bigger than just an engineering challenge. It’s a relational challenge,” said group member, Ferndale-area dairy farmer and Whatcom Family Farmers President Rich Appel, “Invest in building relationships, invest in collaboration, because that can really bring about the solutions that we need.”

Organizers say the group spent more than a year developing shared values and trust before going public, and they hope to encourage cooperation among leaders and stakeholders throughout the county.

Click Here to learn more about the coalition.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-9791, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com