Gearhart’s water future hinges on a regional agreement, not a risky chase for expanded groundwater rights. Since 1921, we’ve leaned on Warrenton’s Lewis and Clark River, a bond formed after our 1918 incorporation.

Our 2008 water permit, however, offers only a scant summer allocation, limited by fears of saltwater intrusion, septic system contamination and the designation of Neacoxie Creek as an essential salmon habitat.

A 2009 report by the former Northwest Coastal Water Supply Task Force, comprised of Warrenton, Gearhart, Seaside and the Youngs River/Lewis and Clark Water District members, projected a 90-million-daily deficit by 2050, due to population growth.

State data shows the Necanicum Basin has a water deficit from July to October. With climate change and sea level rise looming, our long-term Warrenton contract expires in July 2026. Seaside’s role shrank to emergencies only in 2023, spelling trouble.

The modeling images presented by Chris Hyatt, a water consultant, indicated the Clatsop Plains Aquifer held unlimited water. It contradicted the 1970 U.S. Geological Survey study estimating 2 million gallons per square mile. His full water right application was withdrawn in December 2024 for lack of supporting evidence. Preexisting water rights have priority over Gearhart’s request for more water.

A water moratorium already burdens Clatsop Plains, and growth plus shortages threaten us all. I shared key evidence with Gearhart officials in 2023: the Necanicum watershed analysis, the task force report, and the binding 2008 Backup Water Plan.

It was brushed aside — a mistake. Cooperation with other water suppliers is our only sustainable future.

DEANNA MANCILL
Seaside