The Department of the Interior has unveiled a significant investment totaling $37.4 million directed towards enhancing drought resilience in Oregon, in line with President Biden’s Investing in America initiative. This funding comes under the Inflation Reduction Act, marking the largest ever commitment to climate solutions. It aims to conserve nearly 5,000 acre-feet of water each year across the Ochoco, Central Oregon, and Tumalo irrigation districts by transitioning open canals to enclosed pipelines. This change will help mitigate water loss due to evaporation and seepage, while streamlining water transportation.
According to Michael Brain, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water and Science, these funds will provide essential resources that foster innovative approaches to water conservation, thereby bolstering Western communities against the challenges of drought and climate change. Camille Calimlim Touton, Commissioner of the Bureau of Reclamation, emphasized that the projects will employ established techniques to enhance the efficiency of water delivery systems.
The Biden administration has adopted a comprehensive strategy to ensure that Western areas can withstand climate change, particularly given the persisting megadrought conditions that have affected the region. This initiative is part of a broader $550 million allocation from the Inflation Reduction Act aimed at domestic water supply projects, as well as an additional $4 billion specifically intended for water management and conservation in the Colorado River Basin and similar drought-impacted regions. So far, Reclamation has allocated over $3.2 billion for 223 drought mitigation efforts, including domestic water supply projects and emergency relief for Tribal communities.
The projects announced include:
– **Ochoco Irrigation District**: $8 million for converting over 8 miles of open canal to buried piping to conserve water in the Crooked River.
– **Central Oregon Irrigation District**: $21 million for transitioning more than 2 miles of open canals to large-diameter pipes, which will help preserve water for irrigation and support winter flows for the Oregon Spotted Frog, an endangered species.
– **Tumalo Irrigation District**: $8.4 million for converting over 10 miles of open canal into buried piping and constructing 82 turnouts, benefiting both water conservation efforts and the habitats of redband trout and the Oregon Spotted Frog.
This investment not only demonstrates proactive measures to combat the impacts of climate change but also highlights a commitment to preserving vital ecosystems and wildlife. By focusing on sustainable water management practices, the projects are set to create a more water-resilient Oregon, fostering hope for the future of both the communities and the environment.
In summary, these initiatives will not only enhance water conservation but also support local wildlife, illustrating a balanced approach to environmental stewardship and community needs during a critical time of climate challenges.