Deschutes River Conservancy Act of 2024

HR 8428, the Deschutes River Conservancy Act of 2024, reauthorizes the Deschutes River Conservancy through 2034, extending its existing framework. The bill updates the composition of the Deschutes River Conservancy Working Group to include 10-15 members representing environmental groups, irrigated agriculture, the Confederated tribes of Warm Springs, hydroelectric producers, federal and state agencies, and local governments. It increases the allowable administrative cost funding from 5% to 10% of the program’s budget. This legislation directly affects stakeholders in Oregon’s Deschutes River Basin by formalizing collaborative governance for river management and conservation efforts.