Learn
Learn About Our Latest Work in the Deschutes Basin
Raise the Deschutes
View our latest seminars for raising the Deschutes river.
Technical Reports
Stay informed with our latest articles and updates.
Technical Memorandum: Summary of Technical Sufficiency Reviews, Upper Deschutes River Basin Study
Provides comments received from technical reviewers on Basin Study technical documentation; includes descriptions of how comments are addressed in the Basin Study report.
Technical Memorandum: Multi-Criteria Evaluation of Alternatives and Scenarios
Summarizes criteria developed by the BSWG for evaluation of potential water resource management tools; evaluates potential water management tools and hypothetical scenarios relative to the identified criteria.
Technical Memorandum: Prineville Reservoir – Operating Rule Curve
Evaluates the potential for enhancing storage at Prineville Reservoir via modifications to the rule curve guiding flood control operations.
Technical Memorandum: Crooked River – Diversion Gaging
Evaluates potential opportunities for improving water management by installing additional gaging on Crooked River diversions below Prineville Reservoir.
Technical Memorandum: Current Hydrologic Forecasting, Potential Improvements, and Next Steps
Evaluation of opportunities for improvements in hydrologic forecasting approaches that could enhance water management operations in the Upper Deschutes and Crooked River basins.
Technical Memorandum: Upper Crooked River Basin SNOTEL
Evaluates potential opportunities for improving hydrologic forecasting that could enhance water management operations; explores possible sites for additional snow telemetry stations in the Upper Crooked River basin.
Technical Memorandum: Evaluate Water Right, Legal and Policy Opportunities and Impediments Associated with Several Potential Actions in Whychus Creek (Task 3)
Considers potential groundwater-surface water exchanges and below ground storage opportunities in the Whychus Creek basin.
Technical Memorandum: Groundwater Mitigation under the Deschutes Basin Groundwater Mitigation Program; A Summary of Projected Supply and Demand (Task 6)
Evaluates the projected supply of, and demand for, mitigation credits for allowing new uses of groundwater.
Technical Memorandum: Water Right Opportunities and Impediments for New or Expanded Reservoir Storage (Task 5)
Identifies opportunities and impediments for new or expanded water storage from water rights/legal perspective.
Technical Memorandum: Water Right, Legal and Policy Opportunities and Impediments Associated with Options for Water Movement (Task 4)
Explores potential ways to move water rights and/or water supply to meet various needs.
Technical Memorandum: Water Right, Legal and Policy Opportunities and Impediments for Stored Water, Forbearance, Instream Flow Protection, and Mitigation (Task 2, Part 2)
Evaluates potential water right opportunities for managing reservoirs to increase streamflow in the Upper Deschutes outside of irrigation season and to establish mitigation credits (note: Task 2, Part 1 was not implemented per BSWG decision as additional information became available).
Technical Memorandum: Water Right Assessment: Historical Diversions and Instream Water Rights in the Deschutes Basin (Task 1A)
Summary of existing information on water rights and water use (irrigation, municipal, quasi-municipal and instream) in the Upper Deschutes basin.
Technical Memorandum: Market-Based Approaches as a Water Supply Alternative (LPE Task 7)
Evaluates the potential for market-based approaches as water supply options; addresses price incentives to promote efficient water use and reallocation of existing supply relative to potential water management objectives.
Technical Memorandum: Assessment of Potential Enhances or New Storage Opportunities
Provides information about potential approaches, additional storage volumes, and costs for new water storage opportunities; helps inform evaluations of storage options as a possible element of future water management strategies.
Technical Memorandum: Water Conservation Assessment
High-level summary estimates of water conservation potential and associated costs for the eight irrigation districts in the study area; addresses piping district-owned canals, piping private laterals, and on-farm conservation.
Technical Memorandum: Whychus Creek and Middle Deschutes River Temperature Assessments
Assessment of relationships between stream temperature, streamflow and air temperature at three sites (Whychus Creek, Middle Deschutes River, and Tumalo Creek); regression analyses used to assess potential predictors of stream temperatures.
Unregulated Flows in the Upper Deschutes Basin, Oregon
Describes/estimates what the flows would be in the Upper Deschutes basin river system without any influence from regulation activities such as reservoir operation, diversion from the river, or return flow from irrigation activities.
Technical Memorandum: Prineville Reservoir and Crooked River Temperature Model
Development of a temperature model of Prineville Reservoir and the Crooked River; explores the effects of potential water management approaches on water temperatures.
Technical Memorandum: Compilation and Analysis of Climate Change Information in the Deschutes Basin
Presents climate change models used to project potential future variability in precipitation and temperature; discusses applications relative to Basin Study objectives.
Technical Memorandum: Oregon Spotted Frog and Deschutes Redband Trout Habitat Modeling and Riparian Analysis at Two Sites on the Upper Deschutes River
Instream flow study at two sites on the Upper Deschutes River below Wickiup Reservoir; evaluates relationships between streamflow and both instream and adjacent riparian wetland habitats.
News & Updates
Stay informed with our latest articles and updates.
A Fond Farewell to Tara Langston: Reflecting on Nine Years of Impact
Reflecting on the impactful journey of Tara Langston as we bid her a fond farewell after nine years filled with achievements and lasting impact.
Popular water series, “Raise The Deschutes" presented in Prineville with collaborative strategies for the future of the crooked river
Join us in Prineville for "Raise the Deschutes", a popular water series featuring collaborative strategies to shape the future of Crooked River. Don't miss out!
Stewarding Oregon’s Rivers: The Role of Businesses in Water and Wildlife Conservation
Discover how businesses in Oregon are playing a crucial role in conserving water and wildlife. Learn about the impact of stewardship on our precious rivers.
We're Hiring: Finance and Operations Director
Join our team as a Finance and Operations Director. Apply now for this exciting opportunity to lead and grow with us.
Staff Spotlight: Rebekah Altman – Development Director
Learn more about Rebekah Altman, Development Director at our company and her role in driving growth and success.
Staff Spotlight: Lisa Seales – Program Manager
Meet Lisa Seales, our exceptional Program Manager! Learn about her valuable contributions and expertise in effectively managing programs.
$12.2 Million in State Funding Awarded for Deschutes Basin Water Conservation & Flow Restoration Projects
$12.2 million in state funding awarded for Deschutes Basin water conservation and flow restoration projects, benefiting the environment & communities.
Staff Spotlight: Ben Kittell - Development and Communications Coordinator
Meet Ben Kittell, our Development and Communications Coordinator. Discover how he drives success through effective strategies and collaborations.
Staff Spotlight: Tara Langston - Director of Finance and Administration
Meet Tara Langston, the talented Director of Finance and Administration who is dedicated to driving financial success and efficient operations for our company.
Staff Spotlight: Jim Bond - Program Director
Meet Jim Bond, our Program Director and discover how his expertise is transforming our organization. Learn more about his leadership skills and achievements.
Collaborative Efforts in Focus: Deschutes Basin Hosts Joint Water Caucus for Insightful Water Management Tour
Discover the collaborative efforts in Deschutes Basin with a joint water caucus for insightful water management. Join the tour for valuable insights.
Staff Spotlight: Marisa Hossick - Communications Director
Meet Marisa Hossick, our Communications Director. Discover how she drives effective communication strategies for our organization.
"Raise the Deschutes" Seminar series returns for a second season expanding across Central Oregon
Discover the latest insights at our "Raise the Deschutes" seminar series now expanding across Central Oregon. Join us for season 2!
Staff Spotlight: James O'Brien - Project Manager
Meet James O'Brien, our talented Project Manager and discover how he helps bring projects to success with his expertise and leadership skills.
Staff Spotlight: Ali Engemann - Office Manager
Get to know Ali Engemann, our talented Office Manager in the latest Staff Spotlight. Discover how she keeps our office running smoothly and efficiently.
Staff Spotlight: Ali Engemann - Office Manager
Meet Ali Engemann, an exceptional Office Manager at the forefront of smooth operations and efficient processes. Get to know her in our Staff Spotlight!
Deschutes water bank aims to restore streamflows, get farmers water they need, secure water for future municipal needs
Deschutes Water Bank - restoring streamflows, helping farmers and securing water for future municipal needs.
BackyardBend's New Film Series "Water is Everything" Features Kate Fitzpatrick from Deschutes River Conservancy
Discover "Water is Everything," a captivating film series by BackyardBend. Join Kate Fitzpatrick as she enlightens us about the Deschutes River.
Harnessing Community and Innovation: The Success Story of Three Sisters Irrigation District
Learn how Three Sisters Irrigation District leveraged community and innovation for success in this inspiring story.
Direct2 Aviation Announces Donation Plan to Deschutes River Conservancy
Direct2 Aviation supports the Deschutes River Conservancy with a generous donation plan. Join us in preserving our natural resources!
Notes from the Field: DRC Staff Look at Revitalized Section on Whychus Creek
Learn about the revitalized section on Whychus Creek in this edition of Notes from the Field: DRC Staff. Discover how efforts have contributed to its restoration.
A Visit to a Farm in Madras to Learn about Water, Food, and Farming
Experience an educational trip to a Madras farm, discovering the intricate connection between water, food, and farming practices.
T-Shirt Campaign Partnership with Wild Steelhead Coalition
Support the conservation of wild steelhead by purchasing a t-shirt. Proceeds go to our partnership with the Wild Steelhead Coalition.
What We Learned from the PGE Fisheries Workshop
Discover key insights and takeaways from the PGE Fisheries Workshop. Uncover valuable knowledge to enhance your understanding of fisheries management.
Welcome Sarah, Our PGE Project Zero Intern!
Welcome Sarah, join our team as a PGE Project Zero intern and be part of the future of renewable energy!
Deciphering the Water Year Through the Lens of Two Rivers
Learn how to understand the water year with a focus on two rivers. Discover the impact of river flow and precipitation on local ecosystems.
Juneteenth and Collaborative Water Conservation: An Interconnected Celebration
Experience the intersection of Juneteenth and Water Conservation in a collaborative celebration. Join us as we recognize our interconnectedness.
Many Voices, One Plan: The Future of Water in the Upper Deschutes
Discover the future of water in the Upper Deschutes. Join us as we listen to many voices and create a comprehensive plan for sustainable water management.
Guest Column: Oregon needs to invest in Deschutes water now
Invest in Deschutes water now - Guest Column explains why Oregon needs urgent action. Don't delay securing our future! Act today. #WaterInvestment
Notes from the Field: Exploring Restoration Efforts in the Trout Creek Watershed
Discover the remarkable restoration efforts underway in Trout Creek Watershed with our insightful field notes. Explore now to learn more!
Flyfishers Club Annual Event Raises Funds for Trout Creek Restoration
Join us at the Flyfishers Club Annual Event as we raise funds to restore Trout Creek. Help preserve this beautiful habitat for future generations.
Auction Item: 3-Day Fishing Trip to Fitzpatrick Homestead Benefit Trout Creek
Experience the ultimate fishing trip at Fitzpatrick Homestead - bid now for a chance to support Trout Creek! Improve your angling skills and unwind in nature.
Saving Water for Fish and Farms: Modernizing Central Oregon's Irrigation Infrastructure
Discover how modernizing irrigation infrastructure is saving water for fish and farms in Central Oregon. See the benefits of sustainable agriculture.
2023 Water Supply Outlook: On The Path To Recovery
Get the latest update on the 2023 water supply outlook and learn how we are on track towards recovery. Don't miss out, read now!
Tickets Now on Sale for Deschutes River Conservancy's RiverFeast Dinner & Auction
Get your tickets now for Deschutes River Conservancy's RiverFeast Dinner & Auction. Join us for a night of delicious food and exciting auctions!
Irrigation Districts Are Turning On - Here's What That Means
Discover the significance of irrigation districts turning on and its impact. Stay informed about agriculture and water management.
Funding from FlyFisher Foundation Will Enhance Habitat for Wild Steelhead
FlyFisher Foundation funding will boost wild steelhead habitat. Find out how our conservation efforts are making a difference!
Reflections on World Water Day
Discover the significance of World Water Day and how it brings attention to water scarcity issues globally in this thought-provoking reflection.
Frogs, Fish & Farmers: Understanding the Upper Deschutes Habitat Conservation Plan
Learn about the Upper Deschutes Habitat Conservation Plan and its impact on frogs, fish, and farmers. Gain a deeper understanding of conservation efforts in this area.
Critical Wild Steelhead Habitat Gets a Water Boost
Boosting water flow to critical wild steelhead habitat for a healthier ecosystem. Help protect and preserve this valuable natural resource.
DRC Welcomes New Program Director, Jim Bond
DRC is excited to welcome Jim Bond as our new Program Director! Join us in congratulating him on this exciting opportunity.
The Silencing of Celilo Falls - 66th Anniversary on March 10th
Mark the 66th anniversary of The Silencing of Celilo Falls on March 10th. Explore the tragedy that forever altered Native American history.
Notes from the Field: Catching Fish to Conserving Rivers
Learn how catching fish can lead to the conservation of rivers. Get valuable insights and tips in our Notes from the Field blog.
Intern at an Environmentally Focused Local Non-Profit
Gain real-world experience as an intern at a local non-profit focused on the environment. Make a positive impact while honing your skills. Apply now!
Oregon Shines Partners with the DRC
Discover the partnership between Oregon Shines and DRC to bring unique opportunities and innovation to your community.
Bringing the fish home: Fish reintroduction and river restoration in the Upper Deschutes Basin
Discover the success of fish reintroduction and river restoration in the Upper Deschutes Basin. Learn how we're bringing fish back to their natural habitat.
A Brief History of the DRC
Explore the fascinating history of the Democratic Republic of Congo, from colonization to independence and beyond. Discover its rich cultural heritage.
Fish Reintroduction and River Restoration in the Upper Deschutes to be topic of next ‘Raise the Deschutes’ Educational Seminar Series
Discover fish reintroduction and river restoration in Upper Deschutes at our seminar. Learn how we're Raising the Deschutes!
Roses are red, violets are blue, James loves the Deschutes River, and you should too.
Discover the beauty of Deschutes River with James. Fall in love with its serene blue waters and explore a world of wonder.
Recognizing Basin Heroes: Jim Manion and Mike Tripp
Learn about the incredible work of Jim Manion and Mike Tripp, two heroes making a difference in the basin region. Discover their inspiring stories now!
Indigenous Water Rights: The Importance of Water to the Tribes
Discover the significance of water for indigenous tribes as we explore their rights and connection to this vital resource.
"Raise the Deschutes" Seminar Series Continues in 2023 With Seminar on Indigenous Water Rights
Learn about Indigenous water rights in the 'Raise the Deschutes' seminar series. Join us in 2023 for insightful discussions and expert speakers.
Notes from the Field: Skiing Today on Tomorrow's Water
Get the latest updates on skiing today and discover what's in store for tomorrow's water. Stay informed with Notes from the Field.
Instream Leasing Protects 20% of the Summer Flows in Middle Deschutes
Protecting 20% of Middle Deschutes' summer flows with Instream Leasing. Ensure water sustainability and ecosystem health for a thriving community.
Angie Huber - My Project Zero Internship Reflection
Discover Angie Huber's insightful reflection on her Project Zero internship and the transformative experiences she gained. Find out more now.
Notes from the Field: Gathering with Colleagues from Around the NW
Join us for a gathering of colleagues from the NW as we share valuable insights and network with industry experts. Don't miss out!
Lawns, Beer, and Golf: Urban and Suburban Water Use in Central Oregon
Explore the intersection of lawns, beer, and golf in Central Oregon. Discover sustainable water use practices in urban and suburban areas.
Groundwater in Central Oregon
Discover the hidden depths of Central Oregon's groundwater. Unearth fascinating insights and solutions in this essential resource guide.
Second Year of Water Bank Seeks to Ease Water Shortages for Junior Irrigators and Rivers
Water Bank's second year aims to alleviate water scarcity for junior irrigators and rivers, ensuring sustainable water resources.
Dirty Freehub Podcast - Interview with DRC Program Manager Jacob Kimiecik
Listen to the Dirty Freehub Podcast as they interview Jacob Kimiecik, DRC Program Manager. Gain insight into his role and experiences.
Resiliency in the Face of Scarcity: Why Water Banks Make Sense
Discover how water banks can help communities thrive in the face of scarcity. Learn more about resiliency and sustainability solutions.
Cascade Views Podcast - Protecting the Deschutes River Basin
Discover the Cascade Views Podcast, presenting insightful discussions on safeguarding the precious Deschutes River Basin ecosystem.
700 Adult Chinook Salmon Are Moving into the Upper Basin
Exciting news! 700 adult Chinook salmon have migrated to the upper basin. Discover their incredible journey and the importance of this migration event.
Whose Water is it Anyway? Water Rights 101
Learn about water rights and who has the ultimate claim to our most precious resource
Notes From the Field - 28th Annual Fisheries Workshop
Join us at the 28th Annual Fisheries Workshop for insightful notes from the field. Get expert insights and updates on fisheries' management.
Notes from the Field - Senator Merkley Commemorates Milestone for Three Sisters Irrigation
Celebrate an important milestone for Three Sisters Irrigation with Senator Merkley in these captivating Notes from the Field.
Celebrating the 35th Anniversary of the Instream Rivers Act
Join us in celebrating the 35th Anniversary of the Instream Rivers Act and learn how it has protected our waterways for years.
What's Going on with our Rivers?
Stay updated on the latest news and issues surrounding our rivers. Find out what's happening and how it affects our environment.
Notes From the Field - Collaborative Team Meeting With COID
Get insights and updates from the collaborative team meeting with COID. Stay informed and dive deeper into field notes for better decision-making.
Notes from the Field - A Trip to Boundless Farmstead
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Boundless Farmstead as we share our memorable experiences and insights from this extraordinary trip.
Rebekah Altman Joins DRC as Development Director
Meet Rebekah Altman, DRC's new Development Director. Learn about her expertise and goals for the organization.
DRC ED Speaks at Whychus Watershed Seminar Series on Water Use & Conservation
Learn about water use and conservation as DRC ED speaks at the Whychus Watershed Seminar Series. Join us to make a difference!
Senators Merkley and Wyden Announce Crucial Funding to Support Water Conservation and Habitat Restoration in Central Oregon
Senators Merkley and Wyden secure funding for water conservation & habitat restoration in Central Oregon. Critical support for sustainability efforts.
Notes from the Field - Deschutes Basin Water Collaborative Tours COID
Join us on a tour of the Deschutes Basin Water Collaborative to learn about COID's efforts in water conservation.
Notes from the Field - Touring Farms Slated For Irrigation Efficiency Improvements
Discover how touring farms slated for irrigation efficiency improvements with Notes from the Field can transform your agricultural practices.
Notes from the Field - DRC Out in the Community
Discover firsthand accounts from the Democratic Republic of Congo as aid workers share their experiences in the community.
Merkley, Wyden announce bill to reauthorize Deschutes River Conservancy
Merkley and Wyden's bill reauthorizes the Deschutes River Conservancy, safeguarding its future. Learn about their efforts here.
DRC awarded $1.37 million to ease drought hardship in Central Oregon
DRC provides $1.37M to alleviate drought hardship in Central Oregon, supporting communities and water conservation efforts.
Notes from the Field - Takeaways from the Central Oregon Farm Fair
Discover the key insights from the Central Oregon Farm Fair in these Notes from the Field. Learn about groundbreaking practices and exciting developments!
(Podcast) Bend Don't Break with the Source Weekly: Sharing Water
Listen to Bend Don't Break with the Source Weekly as they discuss the importance of sharing water. Join us for insightful conversations!
New Water Management Program Will Ease Water Shortages for Junior Irrigators and Rivers
Find relief for water shortages in junior irrigators and rivers with our new water management program. Save water, save the environment.
Deschutes Land Trust and Deschutes River Conservancy Partner to Boost Water Flows in Whychus Creek
Deschutes Land Trust & Deschutes River Conservancy unite to enhance water flow in Whychus Creek, improving its ecological health. Act now!
Notes from the Field: Wickiup Reservoir
Discover the hidden wonders of Wickiup Reservoir in this collection of captivating notes from the field. Experience nature like never before!
How businesses can help restore water and wildlife in Oregon’s rivers
Learn how businesses are working to restore water and wildlife in Oregon's rivers, benefiting both nature and the economy.
Notes from the Field: Restoration Tour Along Whychus Creek
Join us for a captivating restoration tour along Whychus Creek, as we explore the beauty of nature and learn about efforts to preserve this precious ecosystem.
Notes from the Field – Local Pipe Manufacturer, KRAH
Stay up to date with the latest news from KRAH, a local pipe manufacturer, as they share their insights and experiences in the industry.
Notes from the Field: The River Below the Reservoir
Discover fascinating insights and observations from the hidden river beneath the reservoir. Journey into a world unseen in "Notes from the Field."
Dani Wise Johnson Newly Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner
Dani Wise Johnson - Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner. Passionate about restoring our environment and promoting sustainability.
Lisa Seales Joins the DRC as Programs Manager
Lisa Seales joins the DRC as Programs Manager, bringing her expertise to drive impactful initiatives and enhance program effectiveness.
Deschutes County invests $1.45 million in relief funds for water conservation project
Deschutes County invests $1.45M in relief funds for water conservation initiative, reducing wastage & promoting sustainability.
Deschutes Basin Irrigation Districts Remain Firmly Committed to HCP
Learn about Deschutes Basin Irrigation Districts' commitment to Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) for water management. Stay informed with us!
Senate Appropriations Bill Continues to Invest in Central Oregon Water Conservation
Investing in water conservation for Central Oregon continues with the Senate Appropriations Bill. Learn more about how this bill supports sustainability.
Dani Wise Johnson Joins DRC as Programs Director
Introducing Dani Wise Johnson as the new Programs Director at DRC - an exciting addition to our team bringing valuable expertise in program management.
Merkley Champions Senate Bill to Support Habitat Restoration for Migrating Fish
Support Senator Merkley in championing a bill for restoring habitats of migrating fish. Ensure their safe journey!
Welcome Jacob Kimiecik, DRC's New Project Manager
Introducing Jacob Kimiecik as DRC's new project manager. Get ready for high-quality results under his leadership!
Program Manager Natasha Bellis Leaves DRC for New Opportunities at The Deschutes Land Trust
Discover the latest career move of Program Manager Natasha Bellis as she joins The Deschutes Land Trust for new opportunities.
Salmon and Steelhead Restoration: A Collaborative Journey
Join the collaborative journey of restoring salmon and steelhead populations. Explore our efforts in conservation and habitat restoration.
DRC ED Featured on Western Water Market Podcast
Listen to the latest episode of the Western Water Market Podcast featuring DRC ED as they discuss important water market trends and insights.
DRC Awarded $198,832 in State Funding for Feasibility Studies to Enhance Water Conservation
DRC receives $198,832 in funding for water conservation feasibility studies to enhance sustainable practices. Don't miss out on this important news!
We’ve got someone we’d like you to meet! Our new Project Zero intern, Tai’Anne.
Introducing Tai'Anne, our talented new Project Zero intern. Get ready to be amazed by her skills and contributions to our team!