Budget cuts erode Oregon water agency's effectiveness
Farm industry leaders are concerned about the impact of budget cuts to Oregon Water Resources Department on irrigated agriculture and water infrastructure.
Irrigation districts receive grants to improve delivery systems and conserve water, while conservation groups work to restore water to streams for Endangered Species and Clean Water Acts compliance.
Editorial: Canal piping project improves water management in the Deschutes Basin
Learn why drinking water matters in the Upper Deschutes basin, facing an annual water shortage of 135,000 acre-feet, up to 350,000 in dry years. Save water, save lives.
Project to pipe Redmond to Smith Rock canal moves ahead
The Central Oregon Irrigation District's plan to convert 7.9 miles of canals into closed pipes has been approved by the USDA NRCS, part of a larger effort to modernize aging infrastructure.
Drought: North Unit Irrigation District dials back water allotments again
Jefferson County farmers like Phil Fine are struggling with unwanted fallow fields due to water restrictions from drought. Fine has left a quarter of his fields unplanted for three years running.
Editorial: The Deschutes River's beauty hides problems
Discover the evolution of Central Oregon from a time of railroad and canals to a modern focus on jobs and sustainability. Explore the changing landscape along the Deschutes River.
After drought declaration, Bend residents asked to use water responsibly
Bend City urges residents to conserve water amid drought. City Manager declares stage 1 water curtailment alert in response to Deschutes County drought.
Drought may leave Central Oregon irrigation districts out of water this year
Central Oregon farmers are finding relief with cool temperatures and consistent rainfall. However, authorities caution that more rain may be needed to prevent water shortages later in the year.
Severe drought declaration possible in Deschutes County
Central Oregon irrigation districts are struggling with drought, seeking state aid to combat historic low reservoir levels and water shortages. Farmers are leaving thousands of acres fallow.
Scant precipitation, rapidly melting snow put irrigation districts in bind
Facing one of the toughest summers in 12 years, North Unit Irrigation District manager Mike Britton warns of low water levels for farmers and ranchers.
Scant precipitation, rapidly melting snow put irrigation districts in bind
Prepare for reduced water availability in Central Oregon as low precipitation and melting snow lead to stream flows at just 19-78% of average. Farmers and ranchers will face challenges with less water for crops and livestock.
