What began as a vision between county commissioners and a utility
board has grown to encompass the broad array of interests within the
McKenzie basin.
The McKenzie Watershed Council seeks a comprehensive approach, avoiding
the piecemeal approach of managing watershed resources which has only
elevated the level of frustration in the past. Consensus, communication,
coordination, cooperation and the pooling of resources are the tools
the McKenzie Watershed Council seeks to utilize in carrying out its
mission. These elements offer a fresh way of resolving the many conflicting
demands being placed on the basin's resources. The council intends
to fulfill this ongoing, long-term function of the McKenzie Watershed.
Ultimately, history will be the judge whether the McKenzie Watershed
Council's efforts were successful. What is clear is that past resource-management
attempts have come up short and it is time to try another approach
in resolving issues that affect everyone with an abiding interest
in this magnificent watershed. |