Oregon Irrigation Project Avoids Full Environmental Impact Study
Published Date: 5/26/2026
Notice
Summary
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has canceled the plan to prepare a big environmental report for the Owyhee Irrigation District project in Malheur County, Oregon. They found the project doesn’t need that detailed review, so they’ll continue with a simpler environmental check instead. This means less paperwork and faster progress for local farmers and communities near the Owyhee and Snake Rivers.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
EIS Rescinded; Project Moves to EA
The NRCS cancelled the plan to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Owyhee Irrigation District project and will proceed with a simpler Environmental Assessment (EA). This rescission is effective upon publication (May 26, 2026) and rescinds the NOI published January 16, 2025 (90 FR 4718). Local farmers and nearby communities along the Owyhee and Snake Rivers may see less paperwork and faster project progress as a result.
Previous Public Comments Will Be Used
Any public comments submitted during the original Notice of Intent and scoping period will be considered during Watershed Plan development. The watershed planning will continue under the Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention Act and will follow NEPA through an Environmental Assessment.
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