Water Quality

Algae Bloom Videos from the EPA
Algal Blooms Can Harm Your Health (YouTube video)
You Can Prevent Nutrient Pollution (YouTube video)

Inspection Reports

2016 Inspection Report
2015 Inspection Report
2014 Inspection Report
2013 Inspection Report

Watershed Plan

Plan Implementation
Plan Outline

Comprehensive Plan for Stormwater Control

Full version (105 pages)
Introduction
Results
Discussion
Conclusions/Bibliography
Appendix/Data

Thompson Creek Inventory Assessment

Thompson Creek Inventory Assessment and Geometric Stream Classification (11/2000)

Thompson Creek Watershed Analysis

Introduction
Summary
Prescriptions
Appendix A - Mass Wasting
Appendix B - Surface Erosion
Appendix C - Hydrologic Change
Appendix D - Riparian Function
Appendix E - Stream Channel
Appendix F - Fish Habitats
Appendix G - Water Quality
Appendix H - Water Supply
Public Works Watershed Analysis - Comments

Newman Lake Restoration Phase II

Full Version (289 pages)
Part 1 - Executive Summary/Introduction
Part 2 - Study Area/Information Dissemination
Part 3 - Biological Analyses/Results and Discussion
Part 4 - Appendix A Tables A-1 through A-6
Part 5 - Appendix A Tables B-1
Part 6 - Phase II Amended, 1992-1995

Survey of Newman Lake Property Owners About Lake Water Quality Issues

The following link provides an electronic copy of a data report titled, "A Survey of Newman Lake Property Owners About Lake Water Quality Issues". The data report was collected and compiled by the Washington State University, Social & Economic Sciences Research Center. To access the report in Adobe Acrobat PDF format click here:
2007 Survey of Newman Lake Property Owners

2008 Toxic Algae Bloom Warning Lifted

Update: Samples from 10/7/2008 and 10/14/2008 did not detect any level of the Microcystin toxin. All warnings have been lifted. If you spot a detectable surface scum or suspect another bloom may be occurring in your areas, please contact 509/477-3600 or send an email to: rfinfo@spokanecounty.org
On Sept. 22, 2008, based on a resident’s concern we sampled a potential blue green bloom at the Newman Lake Resort (south end of the lake near the outlet). The results came back on Sept. 29th showing relatively high levels of the toxin microcystin produced by anabaena cyanobacteria (blue green algae). The measured level was 191 micrograms/ liter and the recommended level for recreational use is below 6 micrograms/liter.
Testing results from 9/29/2008 show microcystin levels of 11.6 micrograms per liter, still above the 6 microgram per liter recreation threshold. All warnings will remain in effect until the toxin levels are below the threshold for a week. Keep checking back for updates. Based on Ecology and State DOH guidance we have posted warning signs at public access points around the lake and emailed updates to our email lists.
Ecology issued a press release on September 30, 2008 to inform the public of this warning. This warning was extended to the entire lake on Wednesday due to reports of a sick dog with symptoms of microcystin exposure in the McFadden beach area on the west side of the lake. The bloom seems to have dissipated now and the lake is quite clear. However, until follow up sample test results (expected by Monday, Oct. 6th) show the levels have dropped below 6 micrograms /liter, the warnings will remain in effect. We will email and post results when we receive them.
Some things to remember: Some types of filters may be effective in removing the toxin from drinking water but are not foolproof; purchasing drinking water for the next week or so is cheap insurance to prevent serious illness and is strongly recommended. Although the water now seems clear, the toxin can remain in the water for a week or more after the bloom has disappeared, hence the continuance of the warning. Please keep a watch on your beach for signs of any returning blooms.
Please call 509/477-3600 or send an email to Karen Kruger at kkruger@spokanecounty.org so we can document and sample as needed. The local Eastern Region Ecology office 509/329-3400 and now the Spokane Regional Health District Epidemiology office 509/324-1442 are taking the lead on responding to this health issue. We will forward any of your questions or concerns to them or you can contact them directly.

Correspondence regarding Newman Lake blue-greens from Dr. Barry Moore (WSU)

Washington State Department of Health: Blue-Green Algae Information
Washington State Department of Ecology: Blue-Green Algae Information

Water Quality

Water Quality Informational Flyer