Priority Basins

Prioritization Methodology

Oregon Water Trust selected priority watersheds in an effort to focus work in areas where it is most needed and can be accomplished efficiently.  These watersheds are at the 5^th field hydrologic unit code (HUC) level. Staff chose to prioritize streams by watershed as opposed to reaches because watersheds are already delineated for the entire state and are commonly used and understood by our partners. Fifth field watersheds were selected because they generally encompass

tributaries of the size OWT historically works with and they divide the main stem of larger rivers into manageable size segments.

To determine priorities, a scoring system was derived to indicate if a watershed had flow limited streams or segments, if targeted species were present, and if funding was likely to be available for projects. Other factors considered included the interest of local partners, areas of past success, overall ecological health aquatic habitat in the watershed, and presence of active water rights.

By considering the above factors, Oregon Water Trust has identified 15 Tier I and 21 Tier II priority watersheds in Oregon for streamflow enhancement.   Tier I priorities are areas of highest concern where OWT will take a proactive role in pursuing projects.  Tier II priorities are areas of concern, where OWT will consider new projects on an individual basis.  The above map highlights these priority watersheds.  The dark lines are outlines of major river basins in Oregon. We work in the other non-priority watersheds as opportunities arise. For more information about our priority watersheds, please contact one of the OWT project staff.