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Critical aquifer recharge areas (CARA) are those areas with a critical recharging effect on aquifers used for potable water as defined by WAC 365-190-030(2). CARA have prevailing geologic conditions associated with infiltration rates that create a high potential for contamination of ground water resources or contribute significantly to the replenishment of ground water. The following areas have been identified based on local conditions:

(1) Wellhead Protection Areas. Wellhead protection areas shall be defined by the boundaries of the ten (10) year time of ground water travel, or boundaries established using alternate criteria approved by the Department of Health in those settings where ground water time of travel is not a reasonable delineation criterion, in accordance with WAC 246-290-13.

(2) Special Protection Areas. Special protection areas are those areas defined by WAC 173-200-090. For the city, special protection areas shall include all areas for which perennial surface water (i.e. Paradise Creek, and portions of the South Fork Palouse River and Missouri Flat Creek) are in direct or near contact with outcroppings of either the Wanapum or Grand Ronde basalts.

All areas within the city meeting the definition of critical aquifer recharge areas, regardless of any formal identification, are hereby designated critical areas and are subject to the provisions of this Chapter, with the exception of areas under the jurisdiction of the city’s Shoreline Master Program, codified as Chapter 16.55. (Ord. 19-6 §17, 2019; Ord. 03-18 §31, 2003).