Oregon Drought: Water History of the Klamath Basin

Oregon, like much of the West, is in a protracted drought. The second Salem City Club program for this year addresses this issue. Dr. Don Negri will present and discuss a study he completed of the history of management in the Klamath Basin. The region uniquely combines multiple water-related interests, including fish, hydropower, agriculture, domestic users and native American tribes. The political stakes and mistakes are all addressed in a comprehensive manner that can also offer valuable insights as we face a water scarce future. Dr. Negri received his Ph.D. from the University of Michigan, and was previously a researcher at the Rand Corporation prior to joining the Willamette faculty. He retired this year from the Economics Department at Willamette, where he also served for many years as Associate Dean of the College of Liberal Arts. There are many related issues – economic, biological and political – that touch upon the topic of this program. The City Club Program Committee is considering a series of programs developing and following up on this look at the Klamath Basin. By viewing this program as a comprehensive case study, city club members may expect follow-up programs relating to drought, wildfires and climate change in general. Your suggestions are always welcome.