Thirsty for Answers? Get Smart About Water Rights
If you own land — or plan to — you need to know the deal with your water. Whether you’re dreaming of crops or just curious about your options, this workshop breaks down what your water rights are (or aren’t), how to find out, and what you can do about it. Led by pros from the Oregon Water Resources Department, you’ll get hands-on with online tools, explore real scenarios, and leave with practical next steps.
When: September 17th, 5:30pm – 8:00pm
Where: OSU Extension, 3800 SW, SE Airport Way Bldg. 4, Redmond
Ticket Price: Contribute-What-You-Can
Sold Out? Can’t Make the Date? Pre-Register!
Pre-registration is free; we only charge your credit card when we’re ready to schedule (and you say ok). When 12 people pre-register, we’ll set up the next workshop!
The Details
What Are Your Water Rights?
We’ll show you how to check if your land has existing water rights using free online tools from the Oregon Water Resources Department. No more guesswork — just solid info.
No Rights? No Problem
Learn what your options are if there are no water rights attached to your land. With help from School of Ranch’s AI planning tool, you’ll explore scenarios and figure out what’s realistic.
How to Get More Water (Legally)
Understand how water availability is evaluated and how to apply for new rights. You’ll walk away with a roadmap and know where to go next.
Community Potluck!
Nothing says community like a potluck. Breaking bread while building bridges, so to speak. This workshop will include a potluck, a chance to talk about what you are learning, share experiences, and get to know one another. We’ll supply the main protein. Please bring something along to share with your neighbors!
Workshop Leader
Jeremy Giffin
Jeremy Giffin has spent nearly three decades at the Oregon Water Resources Department and is currently the Watermaster for Central Oregon. He grew up on a farm in Azalea, Oregon, studied Geography at Southern Oregon University, and even worked as a TV meteorologist. With deep expertise and local insight, Jeremy brings both technical know-how and farm-grown perspective to this session.
Workshop Leader
Carolyn Sufit
Carolyn Sufit joined the Oregon Water Resources Department in 2023 after a career in regulation and quality control in the food manufacturing world. Raised in California’s Central Valley, Carolyn’s deep-rooted appreciation for agriculture and water brought her to Bend, where she now applies her passion for resource management and problem-solving to help Oregonians understand their water options.
Partner
Oregon Water Resources Department
We’re thrilled to co-host this workshop with OWRD, the state agency responsible for managing and protecting Oregon’s water resources. Their commitment to transparency, sustainability, and equity ensures that Oregon’s water future supports both people and ecosystems. This workshop is part of their ongoing effort to help landowners make informed, practical decisions.
Join school of ranch
Save 20% On This Workshop!
Join School of Ranch and get 20% off all workshops for a year. Your membership helps us cover our costs. Being non-profit doesn’t mean you can lose money! We need your support and nothing shows support as much as a membership.
frequently asked questions
What should I wear?
Indoor classroom – dress for comfort.
What should I bring?
Bring a laptop or tablet if you have one (optional), a notepad, and any property details or maps you’d like to explore. We’ll pair you up if you don’t have a portable computer.
Can kids attend?
This workshop is designed for adults (18+).
Will there be food?
Community potluck! Bring a dish or snack to share.
Will materials be provided?
Yes! All links, tools, and planning guides will be provided.
What is School of Ranch?
School of Ranch is a Central Oregon based 501c3 nonprofit. We hire experienced locals to teach practical and artisan skills, live and in person. Beyond teaching skills and helping grow our workshop leader’s businesses, we create common ground for neighbors. School of Ranch brings together people regardless of politics, age, background or beliefs.