In the Media Archives - DRC News & Resources

Bend Bulletin - Kotek kick-starts multistate, tribal plan to increase native fish in Columbia basin

September 30, 2024

Bend Bulletin - Kotek kick-starts multistate, tribal plan to increase native fish in Columbia basin

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek signed an executive order to ensure state agencies collaborate effectively to support the Columbia Basin Restoration Initiative, a federal program partnered with tribal nations and Washington State, investing over $1 billion to restore wild fish populations in the Columbia River Basin, including provisions for dam removals and enhancing tribal clean energy production.

Bend Bulletin - No 'forever chemicals' found in Deschutes River, boosting prospects for Warm Springs' water system fixes

September 24, 2024

Bend Bulletin - No 'forever chemicals' found in Deschutes River, boosting prospects for Warm Springs' water system fixes

The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs reported that the absence of PFAS and other contaminants is expected to reduce construction costs for a new water filtration plant on the Warm Springs Indian Reservation.

Bend Bulletin - Conservation projects in the wings as irrigation districts prepare to shut off water

September 14, 2024

Bend Bulletin - Conservation projects in the wings as irrigation districts prepare to shut off water

As cooler weather approaches and harvests wrap up, irrigation districts across Central Oregon are preparing to shut off water and initiate significant conservation projects, such as the Arnold Irrigation District's ongoing effort to pipe 3.7 more miles of canal to conserve water and extend irrigation seasons, amidst a broader regional push led by the Deschutes River Conservancy to facilitate $6 million in infrastructure upgrades.

September 14, 2024

OPB - Groundwater rights in Oregon just got even more valuable. Here’s why

Oregon has implemented new groundwater rules to halt the decline of water levels, affecting about 40,000 home wells statewide. The Oregon Water Resources Commission's decision means future applications for groundwater rights may be denied, aiming to preserve water availability based on scientific data, though existing rights remain unaffected.

A Tale of Two Rivers - Running from First Street Rapids to Archie Briggs Canyon (and bac

September 6, 2024

Bend Bulletin - A Tale of Two Rivers

A stretch of the Deschutes River Trail highlights the impact of irrigation diversions, where the river transitions from full and powerful near First Street Rapids to a diminished stream at Sawyer Park, illustrating how water management has altered the river’s flow over time.

Deschutes River natural flow starting to turn the corner after historic lows

August 28, 2024

Bend Bulletin - Deschutes River natural flow starting to turn the corner after historic lows

Despite two years of above-average snowpack, the Deschutes River's natural flow remains below historical averages, leading to continued reliance on reservoirs for irrigation and mixed results for farmers.

Salmon will soon swim freely in the Klamath River for first time in a century once dams are removed

August 27, 2024

Salmon will soon swim freely in the Klamath River for first time in a century once dams are removed

For the first time in over a century, salmon will soon have free passage along the Klamath River as the largest dam removal project in U.S. history nears completion, restoring the river’s natural flow and habitat.

Proxy Falls is one of Oregon’s must-see waterfalls

August 19, 2024

Proxy Falls is one of Oregon’s must-see waterfalls

Proxy Falls, a popular Oregon waterfall, offers a 1.6-mile loop trail with stunning views of both Upper and Lower Proxy Falls, including a challenging but rewarding descent to the base of the lower falls.

Growing algal bloom prompts OHA warning for Lake Billy Chinook and Lake Simtustus

August 9, 2024

Growing algal bloom prompts OHA warning for Lake Billy Chinook and Lake Simtustus

A health advisory has been issued for Lake Billy Chinook and Lake Simtustus due to a suspected harmful cyanobacteria algal bloom, with residents advised to avoid water activities in affected areas and take precautions for both human and pet safety.

Redmond Achieves Reduction in Water Usage

August 6, 2024

Redmond Achieves Reduction in Water Usage

A need to conserve water prompted the City to bolster its conservation efforts, leading to reductions in its water usage by over 30% in June and July compared to usage in 2023 through initiatives such as installing Smart Irrigation Systems, conducting audits, upgrading infrastructure, and launching public awareness campaigns.

Central Oregon Irrigation District to receive up to $15 million from USDA for Water Saving Commodity Program

August 4, 2024

Central Oregon Irrigation District to receive up to $15 million from USDA for Water Saving Commodity Program

More good news for improving irrigation district infrastructure for our partners in the Deschutes basin: COID selected for funding to support innovative water conservation efforts and improve long-term water reliability in the Deschutes Basin.

Emergency repairs could be done by Friday after lava tube breaches COID irrigation canal, creates 40-foot sinkhole

July 30, 2024

Emergency repairs could be done by Friday after lava tube breaches COID irrigation canal, creates 40-foot sinkhole

Some residents may have noticed higher than normal flows recently in part of the Deschutes River. This increase is the result of a canal breach, highlighting the importance of piping century-old irrigation canals to avoid these unforeseen water management issues.

'The problem is getting worse': Deschutes River Cleanup volunteers remove record trash haul from the waterway

July 28, 2024

'The problem is getting worse': Deschutes River Cleanup volunteers remove record trash haul from the waterway

Volunteers collected a record amount of trash during the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council's 28th annual Deschutes River Cleanup, highlighting the worsening problem of river pollution.

Cascade Business News - Understanding the Age of Groundwater

July 25, 2024

Cascade Business News - Understanding the Age of Groundwater

The Nature Conservancy is conducting a project to estimate the age of groundwater in Oregon to aid in sustainable water management by sampling wells and springs to analyze isotopes, which will inform community planning for future water use.

Northern section of Deschutes River Trail is an easy, accessible summertime hike

July 17, 2024

Northern section of Deschutes River Trail is an easy, accessible summertime hike

The northern section of the Deschutes River Trail, connecting Tumalo State Park and Riley Ranch Nature Reserve, offers a flat, scenic hike of over 3 miles roundtrip with minimal foot traffic, making it a suitable option for summer outings.

New Oregon water boss targets difficult task of rapidly modernizing outdated laws

July 17, 2024

New Oregon water boss targets difficult task of rapidly modernizing outdated laws

Ivan Gall, recently confirmed as Oregon's top water regulator amid bipartisan calls for change, faces the challenge of modernizing water management and addressing both overallocated water resources and increasing demand exacerbated by climate change.

30-year plan to save fish, frogs, in Deschutes Basin has made gains but challenges remain

July 12, 2024

30-year plan to save fish, frogs, in Deschutes Basin has made gains but challenges remain

In Central Oregon, eight irrigation districts and the city of Prineville have committed to the Deschutes Basin Habitat Conservation Plan, a collaborative effort with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to conserve water by piping canals, enhancing the Deschutes River habitat for wildlife, and adhering to strict future water release goals despite concerns about the pace of progress.

Bend Bulletin - As heatwave continues, Bend shines spotlight on its water curtailment plan

July 12, 2024

Bend Bulletin - As heatwave continues, Bend shines spotlight on its water curtailment plan

The City of Bend is promoting its three-stage water curtailment plan, designed for potential drought or system failures, amid a week-long heat wave that has led to increased water use and local drought conditions, although no curtailment measures are currently in effect.

Jefferson County declares drought for record fifth straight year

June 27, 2024

Bend Bulletin - Jefferson County declares drought for record fifth straight year

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek has declared drought in Jefferson County, a designation that could help area farmers access financial assistance as the county endures another year of lower water allotments. This year marks the fifth consecutive year that the county declared drought.

The Source Weekly - Expanding Access To Water Leasing

June 26, 2024

The Source Weekly - Expanding Access To Water Leasing

Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer introduced legislation to extend federal funding for the Deschutes River Conservancy through 2034, aiming to continue improving water quality and restoring stream flow in the Deschutes River Basin by fostering collaboration among tribes, farmers, and environmental groups.

Central Oregon Daily News - 28th annual Deschutes River cleanup announced for July 27, volunteers wanted

June 24, 2024

28th annual Deschutes River cleanup announced for July 27, volunteers wanted

The 28th annual Deschutes River cleanup, hosted by the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council, is scheduled for July 27, with volunteer registration now open.

Bend Bulletin - Central Oregon gets a break from drought, but threats still loom

June 15, 2024

Bend Bulletin - Central Oregon gets a break from drought, but threats still loom

After more than four years of consistent drought, Central Oregon is finally getting a break. That is good news for farmers, ranchers and others who rely on water for their livelihoods, but a relatively dry spring means the situation remains tenuous and drought conditions could reappear.

Bend Bulletin - Editorial: Deschutes River Conservancy gets deserved bipartisan support

May 30, 2024

Bend Bulletin - Editorial: Deschutes River Conservancy gets deserved bipartisan support

The Bend Bulletin's Editorial Board applauds bi-partisan support of the federal reauthorization of the Deschutes River Conservancy acknowledging benefits for rivers and future generations of Central Oregonians.

Bend Bulletin - Agencies, cities convene to discuss water conservation in Central Oregon

May 17, 2024

Bend Bulletin - Agencies, cities convene to discuss water conservation in Central Oregon

Central Oregon leaders convened in Redmond to discuss a proposed groundwater cap aimed at balancing urban growth with aquifer protection through innovative conservation strategies.

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