"High quality water is more than the dream of the conservationists, more than a political slogan; high quality water, in the right quantity at the right place at the right time, is essential to health, recreation, and economic growth."

- Edmund Muskie

To understand the quality of our waters, we must look in the streams, along the shores, and up into the headwaters above. Factors such as the regional geology, lithology, hydrology and climate play a major role in water quality and quantity, as does the management of the land and water resources above. 

Through technical support, monitoring and community outreach, we provide a non-regulatory approach towards monitoring and improving the quality of ground and surface water in Jefferson County.  Our pursuit of improving and sustaining water quality and watershed health requires partnerships, focused strategies, and strong community interest. 

Explore our ongoing programs and plans developed with partnership such as the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA), the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), and the National Resource Conservation Service (NRCS).