In Other News

QCBID ANNOUNCES 2026 IRRIGATION START

QUINCY – Barring unforeseen circumstances, the Quincy-Columbia Basin Irrigation District will begin filling the West Canal on Wednesday, March 18, marking the start of the 2026 irrigation season.

Priming will continue on smaller canals and laterals through the first week in April depending on weather, completion of repair work projects, and demand for water deliveries, QCBID secretary-manager Roger Sonnichsen said in a press release.  

Telephone recorders will be available beginning March 25 in all district watermaster offices for water orders. The service will be available on Saturdays and up to 11:30 a.m. on Sundays for Monday water orders throughout the season. 

After March 25, water users should contact their respective watermaster headquarters for updated information and schedules. 

PRESIDENTS’ DAY CLOSURES

Federal, state, and local government offices will be closed on Monday, Feb. 16, in observance of the Presidents’ Day holiday.

Grant Transit Authority buses will not be in operation on Monday, but will resume regular schedules on Tuesday, Feb. 17.

REGISTER FOR ANNUAL ECO-GARDENING SYMPOSIUM

MOSES LAKE — WSU Master Gardeners will hold their ninth annual Eco-Gardening Symposium on Saturday, April 18, from 8:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Big Bend Community College.

The free event is sponsored by Master Gardeners of Grant-Adams Counties and the Columbia Basin Conservation District.

The “From Seed to Table” symposium offers practical, research-based information to everyone from backyard gardeners to small farm operators.

Local specialists who understand the unique climate and gardening conditions of Grant and Adams counties will provide expert advice and proven strategies for productive vegetable gardens, including tips for soil health, pests, and disease management.

“Whether you’re growing food for your family, your community, or your market stand, this year’s symposium will offer … guidance you can use right away,” say organizers.

Registration opened Tuesday, Feb. 10, at 10 a.m. Space is limited. While the event is free, there is a $7 option for lunch. Visit here for more information and to sign up.

EYA FUNDING FOR YOUTH PROGRAMS

EPHRATA — Ephrata Youth Assets is accepting funding requests for new projects or existing programs that support youth in the Ephrata-Soap Lake area.

Prospective applicants can provide a letter of interest describing the sponsoring organization, program or project and its importance, and funding amount sought.

Letters should be submitted by March 1 to: Ephrata Youth Assets, P.O. Box 604, Ephrata, WA 98823. Grants will be determine by March 31.

EYA is a local nonprofit that has served community youth since the late 1990s. For more information on the grant process, or about EYA and ways to be involved, send an email to jmpope@accima.com.

FIRE MARSHAL ISSUES LITHIUM-ION BATTERY ADVISORY

OLYMPIA — The Washington State Fire Marshal’s office has issued a safety advisory on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries which power many types of consumer electronics ranging from smart phones to electric vehicles.

Such batteries can catch on fire or explode if damaged or used improperly, the fire marshal’s office stated in a press release.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, tthere were over 25,000 incidents of fire or overheating involving lithium-ion batteries between 2017 and 2022. Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration cited a rise in lithium battery fires on U.S. air flights — there were incidents in 2024, a 16% increase over 2023.

The fire marshal’s office provided these safety tips: 

• Choose devices certified by a reputable testing laboratory.
• Always use the charging cords provided with the device.
• Avoid charging devices under pillows, on beds, or on sofas.
• Unplug the device or battery once it is fully charged to prevent overcharging.
• Only use batteries specifically designed for the device. 
• Store batteries in a cool, dry place, away from flammable materials.
• Keep batteries at room temperature when possible and avoid charging them in extreme conditions below 32°F or above 105°F.