Lake Whatcom is a vital resource, providing drinking water, recreation and wildlife habitat to our community. The City of Bellingham, Whatcom County, and the Lake Whatcom Water and Sewer District formed the Lake Whatcom Management Program in 1998 to coordinate programs and projects that restore, protect and preserve Lake Whatcom and its surrounding watershed.
Our Progress
Learn more about program goals and actions. Track our progress.
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Learn more about actions you can take to help prevent pollution and protect Lake Whatcom.
What's New
Learn more about Lake Whatcom Management Program news, meetings, and events.
Latest News
Keep Safe and Watch Your Wake
It's summer finally! Be safe when you’re out on the lakes. Boating speed rules and no wake zones on Lake Whatcom and Lake Samish keep swimmers and boaters safe and protect the shoreline from erosion. Less erosion is better for water quality and protects shoreline vegetation and property. Review speed and safety rules for Lake Whatcom on our On the Lake Safe Boating page.
Posted: July 1, 2022
Check Your Motor. Protect Our Lake.
Check your motor before you head out onto the lake this season: cleaner, low emission motors are required on Lake Whatcom and Lake Samish to protect water quality. Look for the label on your motor and make sure it has at least one star. Visit our On the Lake page to learn more.
Posted July 1, 2022
Watershed Work Window Opens June 1
Are you planning a home improvement project in the Lake Whatcom watershed? Keep in mind that certain projects that disturb or expose soil can only be completed during the “watershed work window” from June 1 to September 30 each year. Limiting projects that move and disturb soil—such as construction and landscaping changes—to dry season months reduces the chance of rainwater washing soil particles containing phosphorus into the lake. Special requirements vary by project type, size, and scope. Before starting any home improvement project, be sure to contact your local permitting center to learn about specific requirements for your project.
For watershed residents living within city limits: City of Bellingham Permit Center (360) 778-8300
For watershed residents living outside of city limits: Whatcom County Planning and Development Services Permit Center (360) 778-5900
Posted May 31, 2022