Deschutes Basin irrigation districts argued in federal court on Tuesday against a motion for preliminary injunction filed by WaterWatch of Oregon and the Center for Biological Diversity in the name of Oregon spotted frogs. The motion if granted would result in abrupt and severe restrictions on the use of water storage reservoirs for irrigation purposes.
Attorneys for the irrigation districts argued WaterWatch and the Center for Biological Diversity’s requested injunction does not offer a scientific solution that appropriately balances the needs of the Oregon spotted frog with the needs of local ranchers, farmers, the tourism industry, and the countless number of families that rely on the irrigation system.
Judge Ann Aiken indicated she would deny the motion, and planned to issue a written decision soon. Mike Britton, chair of the Deschutes Basin Board of Control and manager for North Unit Irrigation District, said after the hearing, “We are pleased with today’s court proceeding. The Districts continue to hope the Center for Biological Diversity and WaterWatch of Oregon will join with the Districts and the rest of the Central Oregon community to complete the Deschutes Basin Habitat Conservation Plan. In doing so we can continue to focus on developing and implementing measures to benefit the Oregon spotted frog, rather than tying the matter up in the courts for years and perhaps losing a crucial opportunity to make a difference.”
For more information on the Deschutes Basin Board of Control please visit dbbcirrigation.com.
About the Deschutes Basin Board of Control
The Deschutes Basin Board of Control (DBBC) is comprised of eight irrigation districts including Arnold, Central Oregon, Lone Pine, North Unit, Ochoco, Swalley, Three Sisters, and Tumalo. Through the DBBC, formed in 2002, the districts coordinate and share their respective resources and management assets to conserve water, improve their services for farm and ranch families, and enhance river conditions for wildlife species and recreational opportunities. The districts deliver water to over 8,700 Central Oregon patrons, while ensuring the needs of future patrons can be met through conservation and efficient delivery methods.
