Tube rentals to raise money for river restoration

The crowds of people who rent tubes to float the Deschutes River this summer will be doing more than socializing and having fun.

They will also be contributing to a fundraiser to protect the river habitat.

Tumalo Creek Kayak & Canoe is adding $1 to its tube-rental fee this summer to raise funds for the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council’s stewardship and restoration programs. Tumalo Creek expects it will raise $30,000 during the campaign.

The money will be used to fund cleanup and restoration efforts that target the high traffic area of the river as it runs through Bend, from the Bill Healy Memorial Bridge to the First Street Rapids Park.

The Watershed Council estimates that 200,000 people float along that section of the river each year. These floaters can impact the river by entering or exiting from the riverbank, which damages plants and wildlife habitat.

Restoration work, conducted with Bend Park & Recreation District, will improve and consolidate river access points within Riverbend Park. River bank cleanups and youth education programs will also be organized.Photo Credit Ryan Brennecke

By Michael Kohn