Columbia Basin Conservation District Announces Support for W20 Lateral Extension Project to Strengthen Water Quality and Supply

February 25, 2026 | Moses Lake, WA

The Columbia Basin Conservation District (CBCD) is proud to announce its support for the W20 Lateral Extension Project, a locally led water infrastructure initiative designed to deliver region-wide benefits for Grant County and the greater Columbia Basin.

The W20 Lateral Extension Project is a collaborative water infrastructure effort that, once constructed, would facilitate additional Columbia River water flowing into the Rocky Form Arm of Moses Lake through the Columbia Basin Project’s West Canal via the W20 lateral. Originally conceived by the US Bureau of Reclamation as part of the Columbia Basin Project completion, this new lateral extension is designed not only to enhance water reliability for municipal and agricultural users but also address water quality challenges, including elevated phosphorus levels that contribute to harmful algae blooms in Moses Lake.

CBCD’s support recognizes the strong potential of the W20 lateral to deliver measurable environmental outcomes. By increasing the flow of high-quality surface water into critical systems, the project helps reduce nutrient concentrations, which in turn can decrease the frequency and severity of algal blooms and improve overall lake health for residents, wildlife, and recreation.

“The W20 Lateral Extension Project represents a strategic investment in both water security and environmental quality for our region,” said Kristina Ribellia, CBCD’s Executive Director. “This effort aligns with our mission to support sustainable water management, increase agricultural productivity and viability, and improve natural resource outcomes across the basin.”

Water resources are a cornerstone of life and livelihoods throughout Central Washington’s agricultural heartland, where irrigation and watershed health are deeply interconnected. Projects like W20 support that balance by enhancing water infrastructure while protecting water quality.

CBCD looks forward to continuing its work with project partners, including the Port of Moses Lake, the Moses Lake Watershed Council, Columbia Basin Sustainable Water Coalition, and others, to move this important initiative forward. By working together, stakeholders are building solutions that benefit the economy, environment, and communities throughout the Columbia Basin.

For more information about the W20 Project, visit w20project.org.

Learn More About the W20 Lateral