Water Supply

Bremerton's water sources are surface water from the Union River Reservoir and groundwater from production wells located in the Bremerton area. All sources are managed in accordance with Washington State Department of Health and federal EPA regulations and best management practices for water supply systems. Bremerton owns and protects the 3,000-acre watershed surrounding the Union River supply. Access to the watershed is secured and limited to water supply and forestry management. Each year the Washington State Department of Health inspects the surface supply. Groundwater wells are also safeguarded through efforts to protect critical areas around the wellheads. Water quality information can be found in the Annual Drinking Water Quality Report.

Water Use

The Bremerton water system serves about 56,000 people and the Bremerton Naval Complex. On average, the Bremerton Water Utility supplies about 7 million gallons each day. Each person uses about 100 gallons of water each day.

Water demand in Bremerton generally increases over 30% in the summer due to outdoor uses. On particularly hot days water use can double. To use less water outside, it is recommended to water lawns in the morning or evening no more than 1” per week, wash cars at a commercial car wash that recycles, use a broom instead of a hose to clean sidewalks, and use native, drought tolerant plants for landscaping. For conservation information, please visit Waterwise Guidelines.

Water Supply Measurement

Bremerton’s water sources rely entirely on precipitation and not snow pack. Water managers measure precipitation on a “water year” which is October through September. Bremerton measures precipitation at the Union River Intake. Water year 2020 began on October 1, 2019 and runs through September 30, 2020. With a very dry November, Water Year 2020 precipitation is only 66% of average so far.

Bremerton currently has sufficient supplies in both surface water and groundwater sources to meet expected water demands. Customers would be informed should the situation change. Customers are advised to always use water wisely. The Bremerton Water Utility carefully monitors surface supplies and groundwater levels and alerts customers when increased conservation measures are needed.