(1) In enacting this chapter, the department uses the Entiat watershed plan as the framework for making future water resource decisions for the Entiat watershed, per RCW 90.82.130. The plan recommendations were approved by the Entiat watershed planning unit, a group composed of a broad base of water use interests, and also by Chelan County officials. The plan recommendations are therefore considered an expression of the public interest.

(2) The chapter creates a reservation for future uses that is senior to the instream flows set in WAC 173-546-050.

(3) This chapter sets forth the department's policies to guide the protection, use and management of Entiat River basin surface water and interrelated groundwater resources. It protects existing water rights, establishes instream flows, and sets forth a program for the administration of future water allocation and use.

(4) The purpose of this chapter is to retain perennial rivers, streams, and lakes in the Entiat River basin with the instream flows and levels necessary to protect and preserve wildlife, fish, scenic, aesthetic, recreation, water quality and other environmental values, navigational values, and stock watering requirements.