What EWEB’s Plans Mean for the McKenzie Valley

EWEB’s ongoing work at the Leaburg and Walterville facilities will have long-term implications for residents and businesses in the McKenzie Valley, though officials emphasized that near-term impacts to water and electric service are expected to be limited.

Both Leaburg and Walterville are small hydroelectric facilities in EWEB’s overall power portfolio. As planning moves forward toward what the utility’s eventual decommissioning, EWEB is working to ensure that replacement power resources are available so customers do not experience service disruptions. Utility officials say maintaining reliable electricity service remains a priority throughout the transition.

Much of recent activity focused on reducing flood and seepage risks along the Leaburg canal, particularly where tributary creeks like Johnson and Cogswell might overwhelm the system during major storms. These efforts are designed to lower the chance of emergency situations that could affect nearby properties, infrastructure, or river conditions.

If the canals and dams are ultimately removed, the McKenzie River would return to a more natural flow in those stretches. Removal would impact long-term ecological benefits, including improved fish habitat and sediment movement, while also requiring changes to river crossings and nearby transportation infrastructure. Those transportation options are still under study in coordination with Lane County.

Utility officials say project costs are being carefully evaluated and refined as planning advances. While decommissioning is a significant investment, the board has been emphasizing that balancing safety, environmental protection, and affordability for ratepayers are high on their list of concerns.

EWEB says it held 17 public outreach events in 2025 and plans to continue community engagement as decisions move forward. Residents, the utility says, will have additional opportunities to review plans and provide input before final approvals are made.