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!

A group of logos that are on top of each other.

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 | Tribal Sovereignty and Water: Tribal Perspectives in the Deschutes Basin
Videos
December 15, 2025

WATCH | Tribal Sovereignty and Water: Tribal Perspectives in the Deschutes Basin

Tribal representatives share perspectives on sovereignty, water, restoration, and resilience in the Deschutes Basin.

Read more
WATCH | Fish, Flows, and the Future: Conservation and Management in the Deschutes Basin
Videos
April 29, 2025

WATCH | Fish, Flows, and the Future: Conservation and Management in the Deschutes Basin

Join experts Megan Hill, Natural Resources Manager for the Pelton Round Butte Project, and Jason Wilcox, Fisheries Program Manager, as they discuss fish recovery in the Deschutes Basin. Explore how habitat restoration, hydropower management, and strategic partnerships are safeguarding vital fish species like redband trout, steelhead, and salmon amid changing river conditions. Moderated by DRC Program Manager Lisa Seales.

Read more
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
Crooked River background image