Join us on November 15 as geologist Hal Wershow takes us back in time to learn about the geologic history of the Upper Deschutes River basin — the headwaters of this iconic river.
Despite its location in the semi-arid climate of central Oregon’s high desert, the Deschutes once had some of the most stable year-round flows in the world. It is also the world’s largest spring-fed river. But where does the water in the Deschutes come from, and what happened to these historically stable flows?
Join us as geologist Hal Wershow takes us back in time to learn about the geologic history of the Upper Deschutes River basin–the headwaters of this iconic river. This unique hydrology and geology created one of the most productive fisheries in the Columbia Basin, diverse ecosystems and wildlife habitats, important indigenous trade routes, sustained human civilizations since time immemorial, and made the growth of the central Oregon cities of today possible. However, with accelerating climate change and overuse, the future of the Deschutes and all that relies on it is uncertain.
Oregon Wild staff will also discuss proposed legislation that would protect the headwaters and key tributaries of the Upper Deschutes basin for water quality and quantity, fish and wildlife habitat, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
