Agate Lake in Agate Lake County Park. Photo by Gary Halvorson, Oregon State Archives.
Oregon's Water
In Oregon, water belongs to the public, and there are many public and private organizations with specific responsibilities and authorities related to the management of water resources. Policy, laws, and rules serve as a strong foundation for economic development, environmental restoration, and protection of public safety and human health in Oregon. With few exceptions, water users must obtain a permit from the Water Resources Department to use water from any source.
Please explore more about our policies using the links to the left, or below.