Outdated policy in arid Eastern Washington gives free ride for industrial livestock producers’ water needs

A large proposed cattle feedlot is lobbying to move into one of the driest areas of Washington state, near aquifers that currently decline up to 10 feet each year, and would use just under 1 million gallons of water a day during the year’s driest months.

Current state policy, upheld by intense industry lobbying, allows a veritable free-for-all on well-drilling – including deep drilling that taps ancient, unreplenished aquifers. Each year, more than 7,000 permit-exempt wells are drilled statewide, and lawmakers are uncertain how to preserve both the state agricultural economy and the fast-dwindling water supply. Full story: The New York Times