The beloved Ochoco National Forest and its precious habitat for elk, wolves, native fish and other species is once again threatened. Just over one year after Central Oregon LandWatch’s coalition victory in federal court to protect the area, the “Black Mountain” project proposes 22 miles of new roads and damage to riparian habitat without sufficient regard for the species that would be impacted.

Central Oregon LandWatch will be submitting substantial comments on the HCP's inadequacies and how it could be improved. In addition to Rivers Conservation Director Tod’s Heisler’s 15 years of experience with this basin, we have a team of experts commenting on on various aspects of the plan, including: hydrologists, water managers, wildlife specialists, and attorneys.

From the early 1900s, the Basin has been under constant threat from logging and development. It has taken the perseverance and determination of its original guardians and community supporters to fight for its preservation.

To assure that the Deschutes River is well-represented in future policy deliberations and decision-making, we are proud to announce that the former Executive Director of the Deschutes River Conservancy, Tod Heisler, will join our staff to run our Rivers Conservation Program .

Central Oregon LandWatch is the only group on the front lines in defense of Deschutes County’s wildlife habitat code protections. Last week, we filed an appeal of an alarming change to the county’s Flood Plain Zone to the Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals.

Local angler and blogger, Yancy Lind weighs the costs and benefits of asking the public to fund piping of Tumalo Irrigation District's canals in this Guest Column that was published in The Bulletin on May 15, 2018.

The Metolius Basin was once threatened by clearcuts and destination resorts, but thanks in large part to our Executive Director Paul Dewey's unwavering defense of the area, it is now protected as an Area of Critical State Concern (ACSC). 
 

A recent bombastic opinion column by Victor Chudowsky muddies the water on Tumalo Creek and needs correction.

The Oregon Hunters Association filed suit in federal district court to oppose the Forest Service's plan to build a 137-mile off-road vehicle trail system through the heart of elk and deer habitat in the Ochocos. 

Tumalo Creek provides a peaceful refuge, outdoor recreation opportunities and crystal-clear cold water to the Middle Deschutes River. Although it is known as one of Central Oregon’s iconic gems, the Bend City Council voted to build a $60+ million water project to take more water from the creek.
 

A new study, released May 10, 2017, finds that when it comes to allocating water from the Upper Deschutes River for irrigation purposes, less is more.  

As Ochoco National Forest officials prepare to finalize a decision setting up an off-highway vehicle trail system, some participants in the process consider suing and complain that a recent meeting did not allow a full discussion of their concerns

LandWatch argued against the County’s proposal at the Land Use Board of Appeals because it is a one-size-fits-all solution that may make any problem worse. 

Hosted by the Bend Youth Brigade Paddle Team, this event is for people - especially young people - who love to kayak, SUP, raft, or float on the river and want to do their part to help its recovery. 
 

This will be a beautiful hike with scenic views of Big Summit Prairie and stunning views of the Cascades.