Hermiston water project aids Amazon and local residents
Hermiston's water project, funded by Amazon, will increase water supply and support community growth.
Hermiston gains 100 million gallons annually
Amazon funds entire $18 million cost
Project stores water for summer use
Aims to accommodate future population growth
Benefits local fishing and farming
Water storage expected to begin this winter
Amazon is funding a project aimed at providing Hermiston with an additional 100 million gallons of water each year for the next 25 years. The initiative will enhance water availability for both Hermiston and Amazon Web Services (AWS).
Hermiston Water Project Overview
The Hermiston Water Project is a public-private partnership between the City of Hermiston and Amazon Web Services (AWS), designed to add 100 million gallons of potable water annually to the local supply for 25 years. The project uses Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) technology, pumping water from the Columbia River during low-demand months (October–March), storing it underground, and making it available during peak summer demand. AWS will use some water for cooling data centers, while the city’s drinking water supply will see a net increase.[1][2][3]
Funding and Costs
Total project cost: $18 million
Fully funded by Amazon Web Services
Includes drilling aquifer storage and recovery wells, plus installing pumps and related infrastructure.[2][3][1]
Project Phases and Timeline
Phase 1: Well drilling completed by October 2025; state license expected fall 2025
Phase 2: Installation of pumps and motors to inject and extract stored water
Water storage expected to start in winter 2025–26
Regular summer water withdrawal projected to begin around 2030.[1][2]
Water Usage and Storage
AWS returns at least 100 million gallons of potable water annually to the city, benefiting residents especially in peak summer months
The agreement will enable the city to store approximately 3 billion gallons of water over 25 years beyond AWS’s own use
The city’s current water capacity will support community growth potentially up to 120,000 residents before requiring new sources.[3][2][1]
Community and Environmental Benefits
Economic support: Ensures water supply for current and future growth, supporting new subdivisions and economic sustainability
Cost reduction: Increased economies of scale expected to lower potable water rates for city residents, projected to drop unit price significantly by 2027
Environmental conservation: By storing Columbia River water during low-demand periods, the project conserves water during critical summer lows, supporting fish populations
Agricultural support: Approximately 50 million gallons per year will be discharged to Hermiston Irrigation District canals, benefitting small regional farmers and extending irrigation seasons.[2][3][1]
Long-Term Impact Hermiston Water Project
The project secures Hermiston’s water future with a sustainable approach benefiting residents, farmers, fish, and industry. Amazon’s investment supports the city’s growth without taxing taxpayers and promotes environmental stewardship alongside economic development.[3][1][2]
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