Chehalem Creek
Neighbors have reported diminishing flows in Chehalem Creek. With a storage reservoir already approved in an upland tributary and further water uses on the horizon, CMWC is watching closely.
Background
Chehalem Creek first came onto CMWC's radar through the Jaquith Road marijuana farm water right case — the same case that led to the formation of this organization. When the Oregon Water Resources Department conducted its groundwater review in response to that application, it identified potential significant interference with Chehalem Creek flows as a constraining factor. In other words, the state's own analysis flagged the creek as vulnerable before any approval was granted.
That finding didn't go away when the marijuana farm application was denied. If anything, it signaled something worth watching: that water uses in the surrounding area have the potential to directly affect creek flows — and that the creek itself is more sensitive to upstream activity than most people realize.
Since then, neighbors have reported diminishing flows in the creek. Last year, a 2.3-million-gallon storage reservoir was approved in an upland tributary to Chehalem Creek — adding further pressure to a system that was already identified as stressed.
What we're doing
CMWC is monitoring developments in the Chehalem Creek watershed closely. We are committed to pushing for rigorous water availability assessments before any additional uses are approved in the area.
This is a situation where early vigilance matters. The time to protect a creek is before the damage is done, not after flows have declined to the point where recovery is uncertain.
Where things stand
No active legal proceeding is currently underway specific to Chehalem Creek. CMWC is in a monitoring posture — tracking new water rights applications in the watershed, staying in contact with neighbors who observe conditions on the ground, and building a record that will support intervention if and when it becomes necessary.
Why it matters
Chehalem Creek isn't just an environmental concern — it's connected to the same hydrological system that feeds private wells across the mountain. Diminishing surface flows can be an early indicator of groundwater stress. A creek that runs lower than it used to isn't a coincidence. It's data.
