Our History

 
 
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Central Oregon LandWatch has a strong track record, grounded in a 35-year commitment to defending Oregon’s land use laws in our region.

Our region is known for its beautiful forests and deserts, springs, and rivers. It is appreciated for its fish and wildlife. We celebrate our vibrant and connected communities.

The result of our work is evident in Central Oregon’s continued livability and in the defining character of its wild lands. 

Using staunch policy advocacy, legal accountability, land use planning, and community outreach, Central Oregon LandWatch has been at the forefront in defending our region’s waterways, wildlife, farms, and forests.

 
 
 
 

LANDWATCH'S ACHIEVEMENT HIGHLIGHTS

 
 
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Since 1985, LandWatch has played a vital role in protecting Central Oregon’s Land, water, & Wildlife.

 
 
 
 

Whychus Creek

LandWatch stopped the piping of Wychus creek and the clear-cutting of its banks.

 
 
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Timber theft

LandWatch’s Founder Paul Dewey exposed and put a stop to one of the largest timber thefts in history in the Deschutes and Ochoco National Forests.

 
 
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Metolius River Basin

LandWatch led the charge to create permanent protections for the metolius River basin, culminating in the designation of the region as oregon’s first Area of Critical Concern.

 
 
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Bend’s Urban Growth Boundary

LandWatch successfully reduced Sprawl by 70% and advocated for a permanent western boundary, wildlife-friendly development, and smart urban planning in the City of Bend’s 2016 UGB Plan.

 
 
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