Habitat Conservation Plan for the Deschutes

Local irrigation districts have released their  Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) for how they will meet the needs of protected species that depend on the Deschutes River – Oregon spotted frog, bull trout, and steelhead. The HCP is hailed by some as an appropriate, and realistic, plan for meeting the needs of these species, and by others as “not enough, not fast enough” in terms of putting water back in stream. And others question whether or not there is room for our growing communities to meet their water needs.

This forum will provide information on the HCP and engage the audience to ask the tough questions on this controversial topic.

Speakers:

• Bridget Moran: Field Supervisor, Bend Field Office, US Fish & Wildlife Service

• Tod Heisler: Rivers Conservation Director, Central Oregon LandWatch

Audience Participation:  Audience members will be invited to weigh in and ask questions during the conversation that follows the prepared remarks.

*Registration closes at noon on THURSDAY, MARCH 12.