New Video: Explore 100 Years of Bend’s Exceptional Water Service

As part of our 100 Years of Water celebration, we’re excited to share a brand‑new video that highlights the remarkable history of Bend’s water system, from its early days of water drawn from the Deschutes River to the modern, resilient system we rely on today.

This short feature explores how Bend established its municipal water service in 1926, shifted to mountain spring sources and built a system that still delivers some of the cleanest, purest drinking water in the world.

Why This History Matters

Bend’s transition from private water delivery to a public system was driven by community need. The City stepped in after algae blooms in the Deschutes River tainted the water supply, leading to the establishment of the Bend Municipal Watershed and the use of Bridge Creek and mountain spring water — the foundation of our water system today.

Understanding this history is the first step in appreciating the century of stewardship, investment and innovation that keeps our water clean, reliable and resilient.

How You Can Take Part in the 100‑Year Celebration

This yearlong campaign invites everyone in Bend to learn about, explore and help protect our interconnected water systems. Visit bendoregon.gov/celebrate-water to find seasonal activities designed to celebrate our water system.

Every time you participate, you can submit photos or input for a chance to win prizes as the campaign wraps up at the end of 2026.

We ❤️ Bend Water. We know you do, too. Let’s celebrate.