The Importance of Lake Samish
The Lake Samish basin is an 8,020 acre watershed located in the southwest corner of Whatcom County, Washington.
- The basin drains to Lake Samish, an 826-acre freshwater lake.
- Basin is a sub-basin of the Samish River Basin which drains to Samish Bay.
- Provides many recreational opportunities.
- The primary drinking water source for 95% of area residents, most drawing directly from the lake.
Decline In Water Quality
Monitoring studies revealed a decline in the lake water quality. Contributing factors are: sediment, external nutrient loading from development, and land use practices within the basin. There is no public water treatment and distribution system within the basin. Deteriorating water quality could eventually present a public health and safety issue.