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River News - In The Media


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.


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.


New Oregon water boss targets difficult task of rapidly modernizing outdated laws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


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.


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.


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 - 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
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.
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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.


Chavez-DeRemer introduces legislation to continue federal funding for Deschutes River Conservancy
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.


Rising population, shrinking water: Central Oregon works to solve chronic water troubles
Central Oregon faces water shortages due to rapid growth. The Deschutes Basin Water Collaborative unites stakeholders to conserve water and address resource disparities, emphasizing collaboration in environmental management.


Columbia River Tribes, Gorge Commission back Warm Springs Tribes in Thornburgh Resort court dispute
The Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs Reservation challenge a decision by the Land Use Board of Appeals, citing indigenous expertise and Treaty rights in a dispute over the Thornburgh Resort's mitigation plan.