(1) Consistent with the provisions of chapter 90.54 RCW, it is the policy of the department to preserve an appropriate minimum instream flow in all perennial streams and rivers as well as the water levels in all lakes in the Okanogan River Basin by encouraging the use of alternate sources of water which include (a) groundwater, (b) storage water, or (c) acquisition of existing water rights.

(2) All future permits to appropriate water from the Okanagan River, the Similkameen River and perennial tributaries shall be subject to the required flows at all downstream control stations as established in WAC 173-549-020.