The summer issue of our Instream newsletter features the latest in our campaign to remove Winchester Dam, drought concerns, legislative successes, data centers, and more.
With outdoor season upon us and Oregon’s drought increasing in severity throughout the state, there’s no doubt summer is here. And with that, the 16-page summer issue of our Instream newsletter is arriving in mailboxes now with stories and content you won’t find anywhere else.
Featuring a cover photo of rafters enjoying the Rogue River, each issue of Instream is a collaborative effort by WaterWatch staff to share news and updates on water policy, legal work, legislative advocacy, and photos from recent events — including a lineup of our busy “In the Community” appearances around Oregon this past spring.
Our summer 2026 issue also features:
- The latest wins in our ongoing effort to remove the 136-year-old Winchester Dam near Roseburg, the biggest fish killer on the North Umpqua River.
- Our successful efforts during this year’s “short” legislative session in Salem to prevent the passage of two very bad water bills.
- The coalition effort that ensured passage of the 1.25% for Wildlife bill — now state law.
- A profile of long-time WaterWatch board president Mary Lou Soscia.
- Tools available to Governor Tina Kotek to protect Oregon’s rivers during this and future droughts, and suggestions for state lawmakers in Salem.
- The explosive growth of data centers in some of Oregon’s most arid areas, and more on the HR 655 proposal to take water from Mt. Hood National Forest.
- A welcome to Andy Archer, the newest addition to our board of directors, and a spotlight on board member Leslie Bach as this issue’s River Defender.
- The latest on our efforts to stop a proposed gravel mine along Grave Creek, and WaterWatch’s work to prevent a dam from being built on Drift Creek.
- Our first “Save the Date” notice for our upcoming annual auction this fall! Tickets go on sale July 15th.
As always, executive director Neil Brandt’s Stream of Consciousness column ties the issue together. Previous issues of Instream are available at WaterWatch.org.
If you’d like to make a one-time gift to WaterWatch online instead of utilizing the issue’s included remit envelope, you can make your contribution here, or at the button below. Even better, connect with development director Casey Armstrong to discuss contributing and long-term giving strategies.
Enjoy the summer Instream!
