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.
Get Involved
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
Lake Whatcom Watershed Work Window Closing
The work window for ground disturbing activities closes September 30 in the Lake Whatcom watershed. Ground disturbing activities include clearing vegetation, adding topsoil or fill, and other activities that move or expose soil. Special regulations apply to prevent erosion during the rainy season from October 1 to May 31. Dirty water flowing into Lake Whatcom adds phosphorus, harming water quality and aquatic life. Learn more:
Thank you for taking care to prevent erosion during the rainy season.
Posted September 23, 2022
Curious about Lake Whatcom water quality?
Why does Lake Whatcom have a water quality problem? What can we do about it? Watch this new short video produced by the City of Bellingham to find out. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u_Ik4f7dvMU
posted August 29, 2022
New boat? Schedule an inspection.
We’re witnessing a surge in lake residents who have recently purchased a new or used boat. Many of the used watercraft are coming from mussel infested waters. Our inspection staff have already decontaminated 22 boats this season, more than the past two seasons combined!
If you recently purchased a boat, call 360-778-7975 to schedule your Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) inspection (and possible decontamination) in advance and avoid delays at the launch. Thank you for helping protect our local waters from aquatic invasive species!
Posted August 24, 2022