ORS 536.241: Policy on water supply.

(1) The Legislative Assembly finds that the availability of an adequate water supply is essential to the continued health and safety of all Oregonians.

      (2) The Legislative Assembly declares that it is the policy of the State of Oregon to ensure a water supply sufficient to meet the needs of existing and future beneficial uses of water, and to adequately manage the state’s water resources. Further, in recognition of this policy, the Legislative Assembly declares that the planning and management of the water resources of this state shall be conducted in a consistent and coordinated manner.