Redmond Faces Groundwater Challenges Amid Rapid Growth

Redmond, Oregon, is grappling with declining groundwater levels amid rapid population growth and persistent drought. The state has imposed stricter rules on pumping permits, limiting the city's ability to increase water extraction.

- The aquifer under Redmond has dropped over 40 feet since the 1990s, with the decline accelerating to 2 feet per year. - New state rules define an unstable aquifer as declining faster than 0.6 feet per year, leading to fewer permits.

- Redmond's population is expected to grow from 38,000 to up to 55,000 by 2040, requiring 10,250 new housing units. The city must reconcile growth mandates with water restrictions, potentially requiring more stringent water management.