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DRC News & Updates

Stay informed with our latest articles and updates.

Congressional Support Builds for the Deschutes River ConservancyCongressional Support Builds for the Deschutes River Conservancy
News
April 7, 2025

Congressional Support Builds for the Deschutes River Conservancy

Congresswoman Janelle Bynum and Senator Jeff Merkley are introducing a bill to reauthorize the Deschutes River Conservancy, paving the way for $2 million in annual federal funding to support river restoration in Central Oregon. The effort builds on bipartisan momentum from the previous legislative session.

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Deschutes Basin Board of Control 2025 Town Hall – Key TakeawaysDeschutes Basin Board of Control 2025 Town Hall – Key Takeaways
News
March 24, 2025

Deschutes Basin Board of Control 2025 Town Hall – Key Takeaways

The 2025 Deschutes Basin Board of Control Town Hall highlighted progress in water conservation, irrigation modernization, and habitat restoration for a more sustainable basin.

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Welcome Grant Traynor to the Deschutes River Conservancy!Welcome Grant Traynor to the Deschutes River Conservancy!
News
February 24, 2025

Welcome Grant Traynor to the Deschutes River Conservancy!

DRC is excited to welcome Grant Traynor as a Project Manager! Please join us in giving him a warm welcome as he embarks on this new chapter with the DRC!

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WATCH | Raising the Deschutes: Challenges and Solutions for Our RiversWATCH | 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.

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Deschutes River Conservancy and Upper Deschutes Watershed Council Announce Move to New Office Space in the Old Mill DistrictDeschutes River Conservancy and Upper Deschutes Watershed Council Announce Move to New Office Space in the Old Mill District
News
February 3, 2025

Deschutes River Conservancy and Upper Deschutes Watershed Council Announce Move to New Office Space in the Old Mill District

The Deschutes River Conservancy (DRC) and Upper Deschutes Watershed Council (UDWC) are excited to announce their move to a new office along the Deschutes River in Bend’s Old Mill District.

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    Water in the Media

    The latest water and river news in the Deschutes Basin.

    Bend Bulletin: Arnold Irrigation District delays water deliveryBend Bulletin: Arnold Irrigation District delays water delivery

    Bend Bulletin: Arnold Irrigation District delays water delivery

    Arnold Irrigation District has delayed water deliveries until May 31 due to weather-related construction setbacks on its canal piping project, though officials expect minimal impact thanks to strong snowpack and spring conditions. The $35 million project aims to extend irrigation seasons and conserve water as part of the Deschutes Basin Habitat Conservation Plan.

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    Cascade Business News: New Solution to Better Allocate WaterCascade Business News: New Solution to Better Allocate Water

    Cascade Business News: New Solution to Better Allocate Water

    To address chronic water scarcity and allocation challenges in the Deschutes Basin, local partners are developing a voluntary water bank to improve flexibility and river health—pending approval of Oregon HB 3806, which would launch the program as a state-backed pilot.

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    Bend Bulletin: Learn about Deschutes watershedBend Bulletin: Learn about Deschutes watershed

    Bend Bulletin: Learn about Deschutes watershed

    The Bulletin The Upper Deschutes Watershed Council is hosting a six-part speaker series at the Sunriver Nature Center, covering topics from geology to wildlife and water conservation, with registration open now through their website.

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    Bend Bulletin: Central Oregon starts irrigation season with high reservoirsBend Bulletin: Central Oregon starts irrigation season with high reservoirs

    Bend Bulletin: Central Oregon starts irrigation season with high reservoirs

    Thanks to strong snowpack and reservoir levels, North Unit Irrigation District farmers will see increased water allocations for the third year in a row—though still below historic averages—as gradual releases from Wickiup Reservoir begin to support both irrigation and wildlife habitat.

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    KTVZ21: Rep. Bynum, Senator Merkley introduce bill to continue federal funding for Deschutes River ConservancyKTVZ21: Rep. Bynum, Senator Merkley introduce bill to continue federal funding for Deschutes River Conservancy

    KTVZ21: Rep. Bynum, Senator Merkley introduce bill to continue federal funding for Deschutes River Conservancy

    Sen. Jeff Merkley and Rep. Janelle Bynum have introduced the Deschutes River Conservancy Reauthorization Act of 2025, renewing the DRC’s eligibility for $2 million in annual federal funding to support water conservation and streamflow restoration across the Deschutes Basin.

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