Highlights from the 3rd Annual Water Law in Eastern Washington Conference

June 2026

On May 27–28, 2026, water law attorneys, consultants, agency staff, water right holders, and resource professionals gathered at the Gonzaga University School of Law for the 3rd Annual Water Law in Eastern Washington Conference. Sponsored by the Spokane County Bar Association, the conference provided two days of technical, legal, and water resource management discussions focused on the evolving challenges and opportunities facing Eastern Washington's river basins.

Kaila Anderson with Landau Associates presents on water rights at the Gonzaga University School of Law.

The conference was co-chaired by Jessica Kuchan of Confluence Law and Ben Lee of Landau Associates. Their leadership helped bring together an outstanding lineup of presenters and created a forum for meaningful discussion on some of the most important water issues facing Eastern Washington today. We extend our sincere thanks to Ben for his continued partnership, dedication, and commitment to advancing these conversations year after year.

Jessica Kuchan and Ben Lee, co-chairs of the 3rd Annual Water Law in Eastern Washington Conference, welcome attendees to Gonzaga University School of Law.

This year's theme, Understanding Washington Water Law and its Application to River Basins in Eastern Washington, brought together a diverse group of speakers and attendees to explore the laws, policies, and practical considerations that shape water management across the region. Presentations covered a wide range of topics, including basin-specific issues in the Spokane, Upper Columbia, and Middle Columbia River basins, drought response, adjudication, integrated planning efforts, hydraulic continuity, water right processing, and water rights for power generation.

Left: Judge Murphy delivers an impactful keynote presentation during the 3rd Annual Water Law in Eastern Washington Conference. Right: Gene St. Godard of WNR Group concludes his informative presentation in good humor to conference attendees.

One of the most valuable aspects of the conference was the opportunity for attendees from different disciplines and backgrounds to connect, share perspectives, and learn from one another. Water management challenges are increasingly complex, and events like this play an important role in fostering collaboration between legal, technical, regulatory, and policy professionals.

Conference attendees listen to presentations during Day One of the 3rd Annual Water Law in Eastern Washington Conference.

In addition to the conference sessions, attendees had the opportunity to continue conversations through networking events and informal discussions with colleagues from across the region. These connections help strengthen the professional relationships that support effective water resource management throughout Washington.

Confluence Law would like to thank all of the speakers, attendees, sponsors, and organizers who contributed to the success of this year's conference. We are especially grateful to the Spokane County Bar Association, Landau Associates, and Gonzaga University School of Law for their support and partnership in making this event possible.

Most importantly, thank you to everyone who participated in the discussions, asked thoughtful questions, and shared their expertise. The conversations started during these two days do not end when the conference concludes. As water law and water management continue to evolve across the West, it is through ongoing collaboration and dialogue that we will continue to find practical solutions and move important work forward.

Thank you for continuing the conversation. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year.