The Oregon State Legislature's House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water convened on March 19, 2025, to discuss critical water resource management issues affecting various communities across the state. The meeting highlighted the importance of House Bill 3116, which aims to secure funding for place-based integrated water resource planning, a collaborative approach essential for addressing local water challenges.

The discussions began with a presentation on ongoing projects in the Harney County area, where a diverse group of stakeholders, including farmers, ranchers, and conservationists, have been working together since 2016 to develop a comprehensive water resources plan. This plan focuses on balancing water security for agricultural and domestic users while protecting groundwater-dependent ecosystems. The urgency of this initiative was underscored by the challenges posed by declining groundwater levels and the need for effective management strategies.

Key speakers emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts in water management. Holly Stenitzis, project manager for the Harney community-based water planning collaborative, urged support for House Bill 3116, stating that the bill would provide essential funding to implement strategies that have already shown promise in improving water management. She noted that the collaborative approach has led to the establishment of programs like the domestic well remediation fund, which assists homeowners affected by groundwater depletion.

Brenda Smith, director of the High Desert Partnership, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the need for long-term investments in water management initiatives. She pointed out that the adaptive management plan proposed by the partnership would facilitate ongoing community engagement and data collection, ensuring informed decision-making regarding groundwater use.

Debbie Bunch, executive director of the Mid John Day Watershed Council, presented specific projects requiring funding, including a biological assessment and irrigation efficiency assessments. These initiatives aim to enhance both agricultural productivity and ecosystem health, demonstrating the interconnectedness of water resource management.

Adam Deminger, general manager of Seal Rock Water District, reinforced the importance of House Bill 3116, describing it as a lifeline for communities facing the dual challenges of climate change and rapid development. He emphasized that effective water resource planning is crucial for safeguarding both human and environmental needs.

The committee's discussions underscored the collaborative spirit of Oregon's water management efforts, with stakeholders committed to finding sustainable solutions. As the meeting concluded, the call for support of House Bill 3116 was clear: investing in place-based planning is not just about funding projects; it is about ensuring the resilience and sustainability of Oregon's water resources for future generations. The committee's next steps will likely involve further deliberation on the bill and its implications for communities statewide.