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Bill

SB 761

Relating to the Walla Walla basin.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Daniel Bonham and 7 co-sponsors

Oregon's SB 761 implements basin-specific water management policies for the Walla Walla region, effective January 1, 2026, addressing agricultural, municipal, and environmental water allocation.

Effective date, January 1, 2026.
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Bill Summary · SB 761

Legislative bill overview

SB 761 is an Oregon law addressing water management and resource issues specific to the Walla Walla basin, a region spanning Oregon and Washington. The bill became effective January 1, 2026, after receiving gubernatorial approval in May 2025. The specific provisions are not detailed in the legislative history provided, but the bill targets basin-specific challenges.

Why is this important

The Walla Walla basin is a crucial agricultural and environmental area that has faced ongoing water allocation disputes between Oregon and Washington, as well as conflicts between agricultural users, municipalities, and environmental interests. Basin-specific legislation typically addresses irrigation rights, groundwater management, environmental restoration, or interstate water-sharing agreements that directly affect farming operations, municipal water supplies, and ecosystem health in the region.

Potential points of contention

  • Interstate water rights: Oregon-Washington basin management often involves competing claims over shared water resources, potentially affecting agriculture and municipalities on both sides
  • Agricultural versus environmental use: Balancing irrigation demands with salmon restoration and environmental flow requirements is historically contentious in Pacific Northwest basins
  • Groundwater management: If the bill addresses aquifer use, it may create restrictions or requirements affecting agricultural operations' long-term water access and costs

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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