Oregon committee advances House Bill 3806 for Deschutes River Water Bank pilot program

The Oregon Legislature's Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Natural Resources convened on May 29, 2025, to discuss House Bill 3806, which focuses on establishing a water bank pilot program for the Deschutes River. This initiative aims to enhance water resource management, particularly during drought conditions, by allowing for the structured transfer of water between users.

House Bill 3806 authorizes the Oregon Water Resources Commission to oversee the pilot program, which will be managed by the Deschutes River Conservancy. The bill outlines the eligibility criteria for participants, the necessary charter contents, and specific operational requirements for the water bank. Notably, the program is set to sunset on January 2, 2034, which indicates a limited timeframe for its implementation and evaluation.

To support the water bank's operations, the Oregon Water Resources Department will require a permanent full-time position, with an estimated cost of $532,394 for the 2025-2027 biennium. Funding for this position will be sourced from a transfer from the Deschutes River Conservancy. The subcommittee discussed and recommended the adoption of the dash 6 amendment, which reflects these financial considerations.

The motion to adopt the amendment was passed with a majority vote, allowing House Bill 3806 to move forward to the full committee with a recommendation for approval. This step is crucial as it signals legislative support for innovative water management strategies in Oregon, particularly in light of increasing concerns over water scarcity and environmental sustainability.

As the bill progresses, its implications for local water management practices and the potential benefits for communities reliant on the Deschutes River will be closely monitored. The establishment of a water bank could serve as a model for similar initiatives across the state, addressing both immediate water needs and long-term resource sustainability.