The 42 annual Central Oregon Farm Fair at Jefferson County Fairgrounds (Feb. 3 & 4) was well attended by farmers seeking information about their water supply for the coming year, programs to improve conservation practices, reports on crop research, and re-certifications for safe use of on-farm chemicals. Here are our takeaways from the two days of seminars and discussions.
Kate Fitzpatrick, executive director of the Deschutes River Conservancy, talks with Source Publisher Aaron Switzer about the new water bank pilot project for the North Unit Irrigation District, which allows farmers to obtain water from other water rights holders.
The Deschutes River Conservancy (DRC), in partnership with Central Oregon Irrigation District and North Unit Irrigation District, is launching the 2022 Deschutes Water Bank Pilot Program. The program is a local, flexible, and voluntary water management tool, which allows for the easier movement of water to meet farmer and river needs in times of scarcity.
The Deschutes River Conservancy and Deschutes Land Trust announced today a water rights transfer that will help return more water to Whychus Creek, providing a buffer for future drought years.
It was a great day in the field observing the importance of restoring flows in the Upper Deschutes with DRC staff and our partner at the US Forest Service. Observing the current conditions and the impacts of more than 70 years of modified river flows reinforces the importance of restoring flows in the Upper Deschutes.
Bend businesses have contributed to the lease program over time, and other corporations have invested through the Bonneville Environmental Foundation.
DRC staff joined our partners at the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council (UDWC) on a beautiful fall day for a tour of the recently restored reaches of Whychus Creek.
Local pipe manufacturing saves millions of dollars in shipping costs and makes this large-diameter, high-pressure pipe locally accessible.
This year’s report includes a message from our executive director, a closer look at our approach in the basin, our current main initiatives, how we’re responding to a changing climate, a look at 25 years of flow restoration, a review of our 2020 financials, and our 2020 supporter acknowledgments.