The USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Oregon announces funding available for farmers, ranchers, and forest owners in Crook County. The McKay Creek On-Farm Modernization project is funded through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). Interested applicants should apply by May 28, 2025.

The McKay Creek On-Farm Modernization project provides on-farm assistance to participating irrigators along McKay Creek by harnessing Ochoco Irrigation District (OID) irrigation infrastructure to utilize pressurized water. The lead project partner is the Deschutes River Conservancy. Examples of available conservation practices include installation of irrigation pipelines, sprinkler systems and water control structures. 

The RCPP project is the on-farm portion of the McKay Creek Water Rights Switch project, which aims to restore natural flow in McKay Creek's middle reach, benefiting both fish and landowners. Historically, McKay Creek was a breeding ground for steelhead, salmon, and other native species, but due to private water diversions and frequent drought conditions, the middle reach of the creek runs dry by late summer and sometimes as early as June. 

Interested and eligible landowners can exchange their water rights for more reliable water rights from OID, with the goal of returning 11.2 cubic feet per second of McKay Creek water rights instream to improve water flow, temperature and fish passage. 

To learn more and apply for available funding in your area, contact your local USDA Service Center or apply online at farmers.gov.