Instream Flow Work

Instream flows describe the volume of flow required to meet fish needs and other factors. State regulated minimum instream flows (MISFs) were set for the mainstem of the Little Spokane River from the headwaters to the confluence with the Spokane River in 1976 and are detailed in Chapter 173-555 WAC. MISFs have been established for four points on the Little Spokane River System.

Minimum instream flows have not, at this time, been set for the Middle Spokane River Basin. The WRIA 55/57 Plan, however, recommends a minimum discharge to provide habitat for juvenile and adult rainbow trout that would be protected through a minimum instream flow for the Spokane River at the Barker Road transect (USGS gage 12420500) of 500 cfs.