3: Drought management tools and market solutions for unprecedented times with Kate Fitzpatrick
Drought in the West has gone from bad to the worst. While conservation and market reallocation of water rights aren't a panacea, they are two of the most valuable tools we have to make the most of our limited water supplies – and the Deschutes Basin is taking full advantage of them.
In our third episode of the Western Water Market Podcast, Kate Fitzpatrick with the Deschutes River Conservancy unpacks Central Oregon’s drought situation, including efforts to prepare for and respond to unprecedented years like this.
This isn’t just a model for the West – it’s a call to action. If you can forgo irrigating with your water rights or irrigation district shares, there is a good chance someone is in need and will be interested in leasing them. Tune in and learn more. We’re here to help.
[01:16] - About Kate Fitzpatrick and the Deschutes River Conservancy
[04:13] - About the Deschutes River Basin
[08:47] - This year’s drought situation and relief in Central Oregon
[17:01] - Preparing for and responding to drought: conservation and water marketing
[40:07] - “If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. If you can’t manage it, you can’t fix it.”
[42:05] - Three think Central Oregon irrigators should know and consider
[47:31] - Kate’s recommendations for the Klamath Basin and the greater West
RESOURCES
- U.S. Drought Monitor
- Deschutes River Conservancy
- Central Oregon Irrigation District
- North Unit Irrigation District
- Deschutes River Conservancy’s listings on Western Water Market
- Water rights for sale and lease on Western Water Market
- Water right buyers and lessees on Western Water Market
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