Farmers, frogs, and fish settled their Endangered Species Act case this fall. For now the settlement assures that 100 cubic feet of water will continue to be released from reservoirs into the Upper Deschutes this winter. That’s a 400 percent increase in minimum flows from recent years, though less than fifteen percent of the flows that existed before reservoirs and canals.
Does the settlement represent the end of efforts to restore the Deschutes, or a new beginning? Will further improvements be made from field and flow efficiencies? Who will finance those improvements? Who will reap the rewards? If taxpayers fund the improvements, what will the taxpayer get in return?
Farmers? Fishermen? Frogs? Funders?
For answers to these questions and more, join moderator Tod Heisler and City Club as they explore efforts to stretch Deschutes River flows to meet the diverse needs of farmers, frogs, fish, and funders.
Panelists:
Craig Horrell: Manager, Central Oregon Irrigation District
Gail Snyder: Co-Founder and Executive Director, Coalition for the Deschutes
When? Thursday, December 15, 11:3am – 1pm at the Riverhouse on the Deschutes Convention Center. To register, please visit www.cityclubco.org or call 541-633-7163. Registration (closes at noon on Monday, December 12) is only $25 for members and $40 for non-members. Plated lunch is included.
About City Club of Central Oregon
City Club of Central Oregon exists to be the top-of-mind hub for citizens and community leaders. We intentionally shape our community and influence public policy while preserving our uniquely warm and connected culture. We champion “passionately non-partisan” discussion between diverse perspectives.
Joey Drucker, Executive Director
541-633-7163
info@CityClubCO.com
