A Deep Look at the Deschutes River: Oregon’s Iconic Lifeline
The Deschutes River is one of the most characteristic natural objects in Oregon and flows about 252 miles through the high volcanic terrain of the Cascade Range up to the point of its confluence with the Columbia River. Beyond a picturesque waterway, it is a strategic resource, sustaining ecosystems, communities, recreation and regional economies throughout central Oregon. This blog examines its geography, ecology, cultural history, and how its human use has been struggling to balance human use and environmental protection.








