July 12, 2022 3:00 a.m.

On Monday, U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced a total of just over $3 million in federal funding across the state to combat record drought conditions throughout the west, including Oregon.

A release said the federal investments are intended to safeguard water supplies in response to the drought and extreme weather events.

Merkley said, “Between record droughts and raging megafires, Oregon and other western states have been hit hard over the last couple of years”. Merkley said the three water projects will restore habitats and riverbanks, and create resilient efficient water systems, “…helping stretch scarce water resources further in these challenging times”.

Wyden said, “Drought and devastating wildfires fueled by the climate crisis have slammed Oregon, and the need is great throughout our state to respond with urgency”. Wyden said, “These federal resources from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law I fought to pass will help protect critical water supplies in these Oregon communities. And I’ll keep battling to protect lives and livelihoods throughout our state with similar support that helps Oregonians weather drought’s destructive impacts”.

The release said the funds will go to:

*$2 million to the East Fork Irrigation District in Hood River for the Oanna & Yasui Sublateral Efficiency Project

*Over $784,000 to the Rogue Valley Council of Governments in Central Point for the Bear Creek Fish Passage Barriers Removal Project

*Nearly $269,000 to the Curry Watersheds Nonprofit in Gold Beach for the Sixes Riverbank Restoration and Estuary Enhancement