Restore Streamflow and Improve Water Quality in the Deschutes Basin
For generations, rivers have been over-allocated.
Smarter water management today means healthier rivers tomorrow.
Water Transactions
Annual Water Leasing and Permanent Water Rights Transfer programs restore flows while the Mitigation Bank helps balance water demands.
Irrigation Modernization
86% of the water in the basin is used for irrigation. Conservation opportunity lies in piping leaking canals and increasing efficiency in on-farm water use.
Collaborative Planning
We convene basin stakeholders to create consensus-driven plans that balance water use and restore river systems for the benefit of all.
Restoring Our Rivers
The Deschutes River Conservancy is dedicated to restoring streamflow and improving water quality in the Deschutes River Basin through collaborative programs and partnerships. Since 1996, we have successfully restored up to 350 CFS of flow in the basin, equivalent to over 14 Olympic-sized swimming pools per hour.
CFS of Flows Restored
Basin-wide, DRC and our partners have restored over 350 cubic feet per second to our rivers and streams.
Miles of Canals Piped
Open canals lose up to half of their water diverted for irrigation, while piping conserves this water, keeping it instream.
Annual Water Transactions
Leasing unused water from irrigation patrons facilitates opportunities for voluntary market-based water exchange.
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