On June 15th, 2023, Deschutes Soil and Water Conservation staff, Board of Directors, partners, and members of the public met for their annual meeting. After a brief review of the 2021-2022 annual report, 2023-2024 annual work plan, and 2023-2024 annual budget, everyone set off for a field tour. The District visited two landowner properties that highlight the implementation of grant funds received by from Deschutes County through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA).
This grant was intended to assist landowners in upgrading their irrigation systems to increase on-farm water availability and savings. Interested landowners were ranked utilizing a system that prioritized improving irrigation efficiency and reducing the use of flood and open ditch irrigation models in Deschutes County. Selected landowners were then able to use funds towards converting their systems from flood irrigation to a controlled sprinkler or wheel-line system. This resulted in more controlled flow rates, lessened water loss, and an increase in overall pastoral health. Utilizing ARPA Funds, a total of 8 irrigation improvement projects were completed, benefiting 71 acres of irrigated land.
See photos from the annual board meeting below!