Oregon is home to nearly 60 National Wild and Scenic Rivers, the most of any state.  One of these is the Deschutes River.  This river begins at Little Lava Lake in the Cascade Mountains and flows over 252 miles before emptying into the Columbia River.  The Deschutes is one of the Columbia's main tributaries. Thousands of years ago, the Deschutes River played an important role in early Native American life.  It provided them with fish to eat and a path back and forth to the larger Columbia River.  Considering the rough terrain of central Oregon, the Deschutes River made travel by boat much easier than on foot. Today, the way we make use of the Deschutes River has increased tremendously.  Dams generate hydroelectric power, providing electricity to nearby communities.  Canals and irrigation ditches water crops for miles around.  Conservation agencies help minimize and reverse any negative impacts these structures have on the health of the river. Assuring longterm survival of the Deschutes River means making sure everyone knows the river's worth.  This is achieved by a number of volunteers and nature enthusiasts.  They show off the recreational opportunities and economic value of the Deschutes and help keep visitors coming back year after year.