Burns City officials discuss permanent pump station to manage floodwater drainage

Residents of Burns, Oregon, are set to benefit from significant improvements in flood management following discussions at the recent County Court Regular Session on April 1, 2025. The meeting highlighted ongoing construction efforts on a critical dike system designed to protect the area from rising water levels.

The dike, which runs east to west at the end of North Broadway Street, is currently under construction and aims to extend all the way to North Broadway. This project is crucial as it connects to the riverbank and is intended to mitigate flooding risks in the region. Kirk Carlson, a local resident, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the city has been actively pumping water from vulnerable areas into the river for the past three weeks. Despite these efforts, he warned that the current system may not be sufficient to keep up with the challenges posed by nature.

Carlson proposed the installation of a permanent pump station to enhance the area’s flood response capabilities. Currently, the city relies on generators and gas-powered equipment to operate pumps, which is not only inefficient but also limits their effectiveness during critical times. A permanent solution would allow for a more robust and reliable pumping system, enabling quick responses as water levels rise.

The discussion around funding for this project is ongoing, with hopes that legislative support could provide the necessary resources to implement these improvements. The proposed pump station would not only increase the volume of water that can be managed but also ensure that the city is better prepared for future flooding events.

As the construction of the dike progresses, the community remains hopeful that these enhancements will lead to a safer environment, reducing the risk of flooding and protecting homes in the area. The commitment to improving flood management reflects a proactive approach to safeguarding the residents of Burns and ensuring their long-term resilience against natural disasters.