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River News - In The Media

Oregon water officials call for changes in permitting to prevent wells from going dry

November 13, 2023

Oregon water officials say permitting must change to keep tens of thousands of wells from going dry

The Oregon Water Resources Department is considering updating its rules for permitting new wells to ensure sustainable water management.

'Covenant of the Salmon People' Nez Perce fight to save Chinook salmon

November 10, 2023

'Covenant of the Salmon People' follows Nez Perce effort to protect Chinook salmon

Discover the award-winning documentary "Covenant of the Salmon People" on PBS, showcasing the Nez Perce Tribe's commitment to protecting Chinook salmon.

Arnold Canal Piping Progresses After Lawsuit Dismissal

November 8, 2023

Arnold Canal Piping Moves Along After Dismissal Of Lawsuit

A judge's ruling allows Arnold Irrigation District to proceed with construction on a 12-mile canal in southeast Bend, after a lawsuit was dismissed.

Wickiup Reservoir nears highest level in years, won't fill completely

November 6, 2023

Wickiup Reservoir could reach its highest level in years, but won't fill to the brim

Central Oregon's drought persists, but reservoir levels have improved from last year due to a wet spring and water conservation efforts. Irrigators are hopeful for better water conditions ahead.

Deschutes Water Bank | Restoring Streamflows, Farmers' Needs, Secure Future

October 26, 2023

Deschutes water bank aims to restore streamflows, get farmers water they need, secure water for future municipal needs

Deschutes Water Bank - restoring streamflows, helping farmers and securing water for future municipal needs.

City of Bend and Warm Springs to Discuss Water, Land Use, and Economy

October 26, 2023

City of Bend, Warm Springs plan to discuss, water land use and the economy

Join us in Bend for an intergovernmental meeting with the tribal council of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. Learn about collaboration and partnership.

Central Oregon irrigation districts break ground on piping project

October 20, 2023

Central Oregon irrigation districts break ground on major piping project

Exciting news as the Arnold, North Unit, and Ochoco irrigation districts collaborate on a major project in Terrebonne, upgrading and piping irrigation canals for improved efficiency.

Merkley joins C.O. irrigation districts, nonprofits for $120M canal piping projects

October 20, 2023

Merkley joins 3 C.O. irrigation districts, nonprofits to break ground on $120 million in canal piping projects

Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., partners with irrigation districts and nonprofits to modernize irrigation infrastructure in Central Oregon, benefiting 2,500 farmers and 85,000 acres.

State likely to deny Redmond's application for future groundwater permit

October 19, 2023

State likely to deny Redmond's application for future groundwater

Learn about the proposed new rules for Oregon's groundwater permitting process and how it could impact Redmond's application for a future permit.

Exploring the Rich History of Irrigation in Central Oregon

October 10, 2023

History of irrigation in Central Oregon on tap

Discover the story of Central Oregon in the late 1800s, as hundreds of homesteaders flock to claim their piece of land in this exciting historical tale.

Little Did I Know: The Dam History of the Deschutes River

October 6, 2023

Little Did I Know: The dam history of the Deschutes River

Explore the fascinating dam history of the Deschutes River, which originates at Little Lava Lake in the Deschutes National Forest. Witness the dramatic and sudden change that sets this river apart from others.

Merkley and Wyden announce Deschutes River Conservancy reauthorization bill passes Senate committee

September 26, 2023

MERKLEY, WYDEN ANNOUNCE DESCHUTES RIVER CONSERVANCY REAUTHORIZATION BILL PASSES SENATE COMMITTEE

Oregon Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden celebrate as Deschutes River Conservancy Reauthorization Act advances in U.S. Senate Committee.

Lawmakers push for increased funding to repair wells amidst aquifer decline

September 13, 2023

Lawmakers seek more funds for well repair amid declining aquifer levels

Learn about a state program providing funding for well repairs, offering relief to homeowners facing drought and climate change impacts. Additional funding may be on the way.

U.S. Senate panel examines groundwater pollution in Oregon

September 11, 2023

U.S. Senate panel looks at groundwater pollution in Oregon

Discover how state and federal laws in rural Oregon fail to protect clean drinking water, leaving private domestic wells vulnerable. U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley sheds light on the consequences.

Central Oregon Irrigation District launches campaign to save water

September 5, 2023

Central Oregon Irrigation District launches campaign to save water

Learn how the Central Oregon Irrigation District is tackling water conservation during a drought to ensure sustainable agriculture for its patrons.

Merkley, Wyden call for federal drought resiliency investments in Deschutes, Klamath, Rogue River basins

August 24, 2023

Merkley, Wyden urge federal drought resiliency investments for Deschutes, Klamath and Rogue River basins

Sens. Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden advocate for prioritizing Klamath, Deschutes, and Rogue River Basins in federal funding for drought and climate resiliency projects.

Drought Continues, New Water Laws on the Horizon

August 16, 2023

Drought Ongoing, New Water Laws Incoming

Discover how Central Oregon is working to improve drought conditions, but it will take time and intentional planning for water capacity to fully recover.

Oregon Legislature Allocates $50 Million for Irrigation Modernization Projects

August 7, 2023

Legislature dedicates $50 million to irrigation modernization projects across Oregon

Oregon lawmakers allocate $50 million for irrigation district modernization, enhancing state infrastructure. Stay updated on this crucial development.

Volunteers comb Deschutes River for annual cleanup efforts

July 29, 2023

Volunteers combed the Deschutes, both from above and below, for annual river cleanup

Join hundreds of volunteers in Bend as they clean up the Deschutes River, with scuba divers pulling up trash and oddities during the annual event.

Farmer's patience waning for 30-year Deschutes River restoration plan

July 25, 2023

Farmer's patience wearing thin for 30-year plan to raise the Deschutes

Learn about the compromise reached between irrigation districts in Central Oregon and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to protect wildlife and support farmers.

Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Expand Clean Water Access in Tribal Communities

July 19, 2023

Wyden, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Expand and Improve Access to Clean Water in Tribal Communities

U.S. Senator Ron Wyden's legislation aims to provide safe sanitation and clean drinking water to rural and underserved communities, including Native American Tribes like the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs.

Drought threatens Central Oregon farmers after promising spring

July 16, 2023

After a promising spring, drought again stalking Central Oregon farmers

Water management officials are concerned about the lack of significant snowmelt runoff despite higher snowpack levels due to the overly dry landscape absorbing water too quickly. Learn more about the impact on river flow.

Jefferson County farm efficiency impresses city tour goers

July 13, 2023

Jefferson County farm efficiency impresses city tour goers

Discover the beauty of Fox Hollow Ranch as visitors witness the carrot umbels producing seeds. Join the 30 people who explored the farm on a sunny July afternoon.

Irrigators Prepare For Less Water - Strategies and Tips

July 10, 2023

Irrigators Prepare For Less Water

Farmers and ranchers in Deschutes Basin warned of water curtailments. Board of Control announces lower water availability due to dwindling levels.

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