Case Study: Lummi Island Groundwater Study

Client: Whatcom County Planning & Development Services Location: Lummi Island, WA Contact for water resource projects: Tim Flynn

Project Background & Challenges

A comprehensive groundwater study is required to pursue the potential development described in the Lummi Island Subarea Plan. A specific plan requirement is to evaluate the potential for seawater intrusion, which can degrade water quality by increasing salinity levels in groundwater.

Solution

Aspect Consulting is providing technical and planning services for this groundwater study. Components of this work include characterizing the island’s aquifers and water quality, identifying areas with seawater intrusion and elevated arsenic, and developing a methodology for assessing whether groundwater development proposals adequately address the potential impacts of withdrawals.