Watermaster

The District 13 Watermaster's Office is a field office of the Oregon Water Resources Department, (OWRD) in cooperation with Jackson County and is responsible for water supply management in the middle to upper Rogue Basin. This includes managing Jackson County’s surface and ground water resources, helping to protect water quantity and quality, and to enhance the quality of life for Jackson County’s citizens, agricultural community, businesses, and industry.

The Watermaster’s Office functions as a local contact for landowners, elected officials and watershed councils, as well as other government agencies at the local, state, and federal level. We conduct streamflow measurements and maintain gauging stations; conduct well inspections and collect groundwater level data; perform routine dam safety inspections; assist in stream recovery efforts; provide information to landowners and others about wells, water rights, and Oregon Water Law; regulate water use during times of shortage; mediate disputes between water users.

[The Watermaster’s Program is helping to meet these County Goals: (1) Protect the health, safety, and well-being of all citizens; (5) Work to enhance the natural and man-made attractiveness of the area; and (12) Plan for the future]
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