What we do
Irrigation Modernization
For over a century, the Deschutes River has been the lifeblood for agriculture throughout Central Oregon.
However, the conveyance systems put in place decades ago are fraught with inefficiencies that leave many of our rivers without enough water at various times of the year. Since the 1990s, the DRC has worked with partners like Central Oregon Irrigation District (COID), Three Sisters Irrigation District (TSID) and North Unit Irrigation District (NUID) to modernize canal systems, reduce water loss, and restore streamflow. DRC and our partner’s regional irrigation modernization efforts have returned more than 265 cfs to the Deschutes and its tributaries—benefiting fish, water quality, recreation, and all who rely on a healthy, flowing rivers.
On-Farm Efficiency
Improving water delivery practices on farms and ranches can have big benefits to both the river and the productivity of the lands.
Canal Piping
Replacing sections of open, leaky canals with conveyance pipe reduces the amount of water needed to divert from the river, helping maintain flows and preventing habitat loss.
