Oregon’s Proposed Wastewater Treatment Transport System
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seeking public comments on the City of Redmond’s proposal to expand its wastewater treatment facility, which is critical for accommodating the city’s projected growth. This expansion would require the transfer of a 541.5-acre parcel of public land currently managed under the Upper Deschutes Resource Management Plan. While the transfer would result in the removal of five miles of existing Class I and III off-highway vehicle trails, the area would still retain 38 miles of trails within the Steamboat Rock Special Recreation Management Area.
To facilitate this land transfer, the City of Redmond has submitted an application under the Recreation and Public Purposes Act. BLM will assess the environmental implications of this proposal, and public input will play a vital role in shaping the decision-making process. A 30-day public scoping period and a 45-day public comment period will commence tomorrow and run until October 18, inviting stakeholders to provide feedback that will help refine the proposal and identify potential alternatives. This engagement is essential for balancing community growth with environmental stewardship.