Irrigation Emergencies

In case of an irrigation emergency such as a canal leak or break please call our emergency phone at 509-833-2915.

For low pressure issues or water deliveries please contact the SMID office.

Canal Safety

Do not play in or around canals!

Canals are specifically designed to move water to homes, farms, and businesses for irrigation and although they look like an inviting place to swim or play, the water can be quite hazardous. Swift undercurrents and turbulence can also drag you under and keep you there, even if you are an excellent swimmer. The surface of the water may look calm but the speed of the current can vary depending on the location.

Debris can also collect in a canal, unseen in the dark water. Examples include: Weeds, branches, tires, chunks of metal and yes, even cars! The best way to be safe from canals is to stay away. It’s not only dangerous for children; it’s hazardous for everyone, including your pets. Stay out. If you see someone fall into a canal, do not attempt to rescue them yourself. Algae can build up along the walls of a canal, making it extremely slippery and hard to climb out. Instead, call 911 immediately!

  • Stay off canal roads and avoid entering the irrigation canal at all times, even when canals are empty.
  • Always walk your bike and leash your pets near canals.
  • Do not ingest water and avoid letting children and pets run through the sprinklers. Irrigation water is raw river water and may contain harmful microbial contaminants.
  • Do not use irrigation water to fill pools or pet bowls.
Call 811 before you dig

Utility Locates – Call Before You Dig

It’s the law!  Chapter 19.122 RCW: Underground Utilities

If you plan on digging, have utilities located on your property before you dig by Calling 811.

For more information visit the Call 811 website.

By doing so, you can protect vital underground utilities that are needed to support you and your community, and more importantly it can save your life!