It looks like the Deschutes Water Mitigation Program will continue for another 18 years. Lawmakers approved it and now, it’s headed to the Governor's desk. Representative Gene Whisnant of Sunriver says the legislation will pave the way for development in the region and protection of the river: “I'm real excited. It’s an important bill for conservationists and economic in cities. It was a lot of hard work that all the concerns were addressed. I think the bill will help cities, farmers in the Deschutes River Basin.” The Governor is expected the sign the bill.  Whisnant’s bill will extend the program until 2029. It ensures that when water is pumped from the basin, enough water is pumped back in to replace it.