Oregon Senators Want To Improve Water Resilience Across the West

On Tuesday, Oregon senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley introduction legislation they say will help improve water resilience in communities across Oregon, and the West, facing persistent drought.

The Western Water Reinvestment Act, they say, would improve water access for agriculture and conservation by supporting projects that improve dam safety, create more resilient watersheds, and benefit agricultural and urban water users.  

“Water scarcity in the West isn’t a question of if, it’s when,” Wyden said. “The federal government needs to get serious about protecting water resources before it’s too late, and my legislation will help Oregon’s farmers and producers remain even more resilient against growing drought conditions.” 

“As climate chaos fuels hotter and drier summers, we must ensure that we have reliable, resilient water infrastructure that every farmer, Tribe, and community in our state can count on,” Merkley addedl. “Passing this bill will provide more opportunities for crucial investments and innovative solutions to support communities facing persistent drought conditions.”

Many parts of Oregon reported record, or near record-low snowpack over the winter, and many sections of the state remain under extreme drought conditions.

Click Here to learn more about the Western Water Reinvestment Act.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-9791, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com