Although Puget Sound is known for plentiful rain most of the year, the roaring torrents of spring can slow to a lazy stream during our dry and sunny summer months. Although this seasonal variation is normal, low summer flows can affect salmon runs, wildlife, and our water supply.
Development that draws water away from streams can reduce flows even more. Pumps can divert water, and new wells that tap ground water and new buildings, roads, and parking lots that prevent water from percolating into the ground can reduce the amount of water that would otherwise recharge summer streams. Shrinking snowpack and warmer summer temperatures can also reduce summer flows.