Bureau of Reclamation - Columbia-Pacific Northwest Region

The mission of the Bureau of Reclamation is to manage, develop, and protect water and related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner in the interest of the American public.

Originally conceived under the Reclamation Act of 1902 as a means to help settle the West by providing infrastructure for agricultural development, the Reclamation program focused on the construction of dams and facilities to store and convey water. Unlike other Interior agencies that operate under an overall organic act or authority, Reclamation operates under specific authority for each project. As the potential for additional project purposes was identified by the states and local entities, Congress supplemented the Reclamation Act to add hydropower production, flood control, municipal and industrial water, recreation, and fish and wildlife enhancement to the list of authorized project purposes.

Today, Reclamation projects continue to support this multipurpose mission. And, as the demand for water increases, Reclamation is improving its water management expertise and expanding partnerships with states, Indian Tribes, local communities, and other Federal agencies to meet the increased demand for water. Existing projects are being modified to meet the changing needs and desires of society, to support economic development, to enhance environmental benefits, and to continue to ensure public safety.