To promote responsible stewardship of the water resources of the State of Washington for the benefit of all citizens; to engage in educational and other activities which promote the efficient formation and operation of irrigation districts and irrigation companies; to support the development, control, conservation, preservation and utilization of water resources in a manner which will protect the environment, promote economic growth and add stability to irrigated agriculture and related business; to propose and advocate federal, state and local policies which serve the best interests of the Association and to oppose those of contrary nature; and to work with other water user groups in this and other states and with the National Water Resources Association in the pursuance of common goals.

WSWRA attempts to respond to the needs and problems facing its membership in the complex environment of legal, legislative, technical and developmental affairs.

During all sessions of the Washington State Legislature the WSWRA Legislative Committee, Board, Officers and Staff work diligently to see that legislation needed by the membership is introduced, clears the Legislature and is signed into law by the Governor. By the same token, the Association seeks to protect its members from adverse, ill-conceived laws and other unnecessary restrictions. Individuals from member districts and organizations augment the staff by providing expert testimony at public legislative hearings to ensure an accurate picture of water resource issues is being presented. During the session, legislative status reports and other pertinent information are mailed to members. Following the conclusion of the session, a final legislative report, complete with digests of passed bills which may affect the membership is compiled and provided to WSWRA members.

WSWRA is represented at the national level through its affiliation with the National Water Resources Association headquartered in Arlington, VA.

Information affecting water resources in the state and the nation, including job openings, workshops, construction projects and legal decisions is distributed through e-mail and on our web site. Other means of communications and publications include: WSWRA Membership Directory & Handbook and Irrigation Laws Handbook.

MEMBERSHIP INFORMATION:

Business - $300

Individual - $35

Irrigation District - as follows:

Regular Dues:
$0.0065 X 2006 O&M Expenditures
$200 Minimum/$18,000 Maximum

Legislative Contribution:
$0.07 X Assessed Acres
$200 Minimum/$11,500 Maximum

Municipalities:
0 - 3,500 Population $52
3,501- 10,000 Population $150
10,0001 - 100,000 Population $0.0165 per capita
100,000+ Population $1,500