Preserving Flows and Instream Rights at Grave Creek
WaterWatch went to trial in December to prevent a water right transfer along Grave Creek in the Rogue Basin that would move the point of diversion, or place where surface water is diverted from a surface water source, to a location upstream and change the use from irrigation to mining. The transfer would reduce flows, harm salmon and other aquatic species, and injure an existing instream water right. WaterWatch stepped in to ensure the Oregon Water Resources Department fulfills its statutory duty to protect instream water rights.

Sauvie Island Birding Tour with Mike Houck
WaterWatch supporters and members of our staff and board donned binoculars on Dec. 15 for a birdwatching tour of Sauvie Island in the Columbia River, led by Mike Houck of the Portland-based Urban Greenspaces Institute. One of dozens of auction packages from the annual Celebration of Oregon Rivers in September, attendees enjoyed up-close encounters with a variety of regional late-autumn wildlife, including sandhill cranes, eagles, and a variety of other migratory and local birds.

Historic Removal of Klamath Dams to Continue in 2024
The first of four dams slated for demolition along the Klamath River came down in November, leaving three more to be removed in 2024. Built between 1911 and 1962 as part of the Klamath Hydroelectric Project, the dams blocked salmon from reaching Oregon and severely damaged the river's health. WaterWatch worked for years to advocate for removal of the dams in the federal relicensing process and related efforts, and to ensure streamflows and the basin's National Wildlife Refuges wouldn't be jeopardized in any dam removal deal.

50th Anniversary of the Federal Endangered Species Act
This week marked the 50th anniversary of the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA), signed into law by President Nixon Dec. 28, 1973. Utilizing the preservation of habitat as a means of ensuring the survival of identified species remains a key component of the ESA, and over the decades it has provided a critical framework for WaterWatch to secure protections for aquatic species and river ecosystems in Oregon. Raise a glass to the 50th anniversary of the ESA — and to 50 more years of successes under the law!

Last Chance to Contribute Ahead of the New Year
In addition to making a one-time donation, there's still time in 2023 to support our work by donating stocks, bonds, or appreciated securities directly to WaterWatch rather than selling them and donating their proceeds, as this may allow for certain tax benefits and may help diversify assets. Becoming a WaterWatch River Defender or a monthly sustaining member are great options too. Contact executive director Neil Brandt for more information, and always consult your tax advisor for the specific tax treatment in your situation for any gift.