Oregon Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden have announced legislation to reauthorize the Deschutes River Conservancy’s federal eligibility to receive federal funding for water quality and conservation projects.  Founded in 1996, the DRC initially focused on grazing and timber issues impacting river health, but has shifted to water management in recent years.  Following its reauthorization in 2005, DRC was eligible to receive $2 million per year for ten years, but no allocations were made during that time period and the organization currently relies on private donations or local government entities.  The bill would provide up to $2 million in funding per year for ten years.  Since its creation, the DRC has helped restore 250 cubic feet per second of water to parts of the Deschutes River and surrounding tributaries.  Upcoming projects will include addressing water quality issues in the Crooked River.