Overview

As the Deschutes River winds its way into Bend, it enters a stretch known as the Old Mill District. The site is aptly named as the site of two lumber mills that served as the principal industry during the founding of Bend, the natural flow of the river has been impacted through years of development.

As Bend grows, the former mill property continues to evolve into a recreation, shopping and business area. On the upstream end of the Old Mill District lies Farewell Bend Park, a development by Bend Metro Park and Recreation District (BMPRD). With the cooperation of BMPRD and the Old Mill District, the Watershed Council implemented a project to improve riparian and wetland habitat along all of the 2,500 lineal feet of the park bordering the river.

Creating Balance

A partnership was developed among the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council, Bend Metro Park and Recreation District, Deschutes River Conservancy, OWEB, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Deschutes Mitigation and Enhancement Fund. The goal was to restore 2,500 lineal feet of Deschutes River frontage at the Farewell Bend Park. In spring 2004, the project was implemented, including three acres of native riparian planting and in-stream wetland restoration. More than 1,300 native riparian plants were installed. Teams of community volunteers of all ages completed most of the planting.

The project struck a balance between the needs of the expanding community and recreational users, with the health of the Deschutes River. It is an outstanding example of how the community can develop property along the river while maintaining a healthy natural habitat.

Funding

The project has been funded by a variety of concerned groups and organizations. Amongst them, the Deschutes River Conservancy, the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the Deschutes Mitigation and Enhancement Fund, and For Sake of the Salmon.