Grants supporting projects to improve fish habitat
The Pelton Round Butte Fund was set up to protect and enhance habitat for Deschutes River fish passage. Grants totaling $21.5 million will be awarded through the year 2020 for water rights and habitat improvements where salmon and steelhead will migrate, spawn and rear.
Conservation organizations and landholders will receive funds for projects such as removing culverts, stabilizing stream banks, restoring channels and conserving water. To date, more than $6 million has been awarded for dozens of projects. Another $6 million will be distributed in 2013, at which time applications will be accepted
To learn more, see our Pelton Round Butte Fund slide presentation (PDF*).
The Pelton Round Butte Fund implementation plan (PDF*) created two components, a General Fund and a Water Rights Fund.
General Fund
Seven projects were funded in 2006 and 20 projects were funded in 2007. The next funding cycle will be 2013, when applications will once again be accepted for the General Fund.
Water Rights Fund
The Water Rights Fund will be used to acquire or lease instream water rights or participate in water conservation projects that benefit aquatic habitat. PGE and the Tribes can partner with established conservation organizations in developing, funding or implementing these projects. PGE and the Tribes will actively pursue opportunities for increasing instream flows. To learn more about the Water Rights Fund, see that portion of the settlement agreement. (PDF*)
If you’re interested in pursuing a project through the Water Rights Fund, contact PGE Hydro Licensing Director Julie Keil by e-mail or call 503-464-8864.
*Note: You will need the Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view and print PDF files. Visit the Adobe Web site for downloading instructions.
