#soaplake

Soap Lake, a highly mineralized lake formed following the Ice Age, is renowned for its exceptional healing properties. Drawing individuals from across the globe, the lake's unique mineral content has offered relief for various ailments. Unfortunately, the mineral content of Soap Lake is diminishing due to environmental challenges, including pollution, climate change, and freshening. The Local Soap Lake Conservancy, in collaboration with the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, is taking decisive action to safeguard Soap Lake as an Outstanding Resource Water (ORW), ensuring its protection from degradation.

The designation of ORW grants protection to bodies of water from degradation while still allowing certain activities, such as public swimming and seasonal recreation. Soap Lake's eligibility for this designation is based on three critical factors: its unique habitat, which is regionally rare, and an exceptional statewide ecological significance, as well as its regionally unique recreational value The high quality of water and the distinct mineral content of Soap Lake lend it national significance as a protected body of water.

To ensure the preservation of Soap Lake for future generations, the local Soap Lake Conservancy and the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation encourage public participation during the ongoing ORW public comment period throughout the summer of 2023. The organizations invite concerned individuals from across the nation (and world!) to actively engage and submit their comments on the long-term sustainability of Soap Lake. Detailed information on the Soap Lake conservancy and how to contribute a public comment can be found at