Raise the Deschutes

Help Us Raise the Deschutes

Next Event:

February
25
 -  

How Water Moves Through Central Oregon: From Snowpack to Streams, Farms, and Faucets

Where does Central Oregon’s water come from—and how does it move through our landscape?

This Raise the Deschutes seminar will explore the basics of how water flows through Central Oregon, from precipitation and winter snowpack to rivers, groundwater, farms, and municipal systems. We’ll break down the differences between surface water and groundwater, why timing matters as much as volume, and how seasonal conditions shape water availability across the basin.

Designed as an accessible, big-picture overview, this conversation will provide shared context for understanding water challenges and opportunities in Central Oregon—now and into the future.

Speakers:

Lisa Seales, PhD., Senior Program Manager, Deschutes River Conservancy
Zach Freed, Director, Sustainable Water Program, The Nature Conservancy in Oregon

Doors open at 5:30
Program begins at 6:00
Food and drink are available for purchase.

Note: If you're planning to have dinner at Worthy Brewing, we advise you to arrive early as there will not be tables in the seminar room.

Thank you to current 2024 sponsors!

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Raise the Deschutes Seminar Recordings

Our Raise the Deschutes Seminar Series is an accessible way to learn about water in the Deschutes River Basin. Each seminar is about 90 minutes and features experts in their respective fields. You can watch the recordings below or check out our upcoming seminars by clicking the button on the right.

WATCH | Raising the Deschutes: Challenges and Solutions for Our Rivers
Videos
February 20, 2025

WATCH | Raising the Deschutes: Challenges and Solutions for Our Rivers

In this seminar, experts dive into the critical water challenges facing the Deschutes Basin, including low streamflows and water quality concerns. Through case studies and collaborative initiatives, you'll learn about ongoing efforts to balance ecological health with agricultural and recreational needs, ensuring a resilient water future for the region.

Read more
WATCH | Beneath the Surface: Navigating Oregon's New Groundwater Rules and Their Impact in Central Oregon
Videos
December 16, 2024

WATCH | Beneath the Surface: Navigating Oregon's New Groundwater Rules and Their Impact in Central Oregon

Learn about the largest change in Oregon's water policy and how it will affect water in Central Oregon.

Read more
Shaping the Future: Conservation, Restoration, and Flow Management in the Upper Deschutes River
Videos
April 3, 2024

Shaping the Future: Conservation, Restoration, and Flow Management in the Upper Deschutes River

Discover collaborative water conservation efforts and their impact on the Upper Deschutes River. Featuring insights from Bridget Moran and Lisa Seales.

Read more
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