ODFW seeks comment on R2 Ranch fish passage exemption

SALEM, Ore. – The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking public comment on a request to exempt from fish passage requirements an existing water diversion structure in Jefferson County. Comments are due by Nov. 8, 2010.

The R2 Ranch is certifying a water right through the Oregon Water Resources Department in Pony Creek, a tributary to Trout Creek, which is a tributary to the Deschutes River. This action has triggered Oregon’s fish passage laws.

According to Greg Apke, ODFW Fish Passage Program coordinator, ODFW may grant an exemption if there is no benefit to fish from providing passage. At the Pony Creek site, fish habitat above the ranch dam would remain inaccessible because the lower portion of the Pony Creek channel was filled several years ago and is now farmed.

Because of these site conditions, ODFW has made an initial determination that even if the R2 Ranch provided fish passage, the action would still result in no net benefit to native migratory fish.

Therefore, unless public comment is provided that would affect the Department's determination, the exemption request will be approved. 

In the meantime, members of the public will have until Nov. 8, 2010 to submit written comments on the proposed plan. The R2 Ranch’s fish passage exemption application and the Department’s benefit analysis are available at https://www.dfw.state.or.us/fish/passage/ .

Members of the public can send written comments to or request additional information from Greg Apke, ODFW Fish Passage Program leader, 3406 NE Cherry Ave. NE, Salem, OR 97303, e-mail, Greg.D.Apke@state.or.us, or by calling (503) 947-6228.