Chavez-DeRemer introduces legislation to continue federal funding for Deschutes River Conservancy
WASHINGTON (KTVZ) – Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05) introduced legislation Thursday to continue federal funding for the Deschutes River Conservancy, which has helped improve water quality along the Deschutes River Basin since 1996.
Chavez-DeRemer’s proposal, the Deschutes River Conservancy Act, would reauthorize the DRC for 10 years – ensuring tribes, farmers, foresters, ranchers, and environmental groups can continue working together to improve water quality and restore stream flow, she said in a news release, which continues in full below.
“I’m grateful to all those who have been a part of the Deschutes River Conservancy over the years. For decades, the collective efforts of the DRC have helped promote sustainable water management practices, improving water quality and supporting recreational activities for generations of Oregonians. I’m honored to lead the Deschutes River Conservancy Act and will continue working to support their efforts at the federal level,” Chavez-DeRemer said.
“We are thrilled by Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer’s introduction of legislation to reauthorize the Deschutes River Conservancy. This critical funding will help scale the water conservation solutions that provide resilience to agriculture, cities, and rivers in the Deschutes Basin into the future. This legislation is not just a testament to the regional significance of the Deschutes River, but also to the dedication to collaboration by our community and partners,” said Kate Fitzpatrick, Executive Director of the Deschutes River Conservancy.
The DRC’s efforts have helped pipe over 100 miles of irrigation canals, restore 350 cubic feet per second of stream flow to basins, and increase water supply reliability to over 150,000 acres. Additionally, the DRC has engaged with over 45 local and regional groups to secure the best possible outcome for those utilizing the river for irrigation, recreation, and other purposes.
The Deschutes River Conservancy Act would reauthorize the DRC through 2034, ensuring it can receive $2 million in federal funding annually through the Bureau of Reclamation. Full text of the bill is available HERE.
