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Central Oregon Environment
This region of Oregon was formed largely by volcanic activity. This is evidenced by the incredible amount of lava rock found here. Large lava rock formations are everywhere. Numerous cinder cones and lava tube caves dot the landscape in all directions. The elevation of Bend at around 3,200 feet coupled with the arid climate places the region in the high desert category.
The plant and tree life here seems monotonous at first glance, but on closure inspection reveals a pleasing variety. Near the Cascade Mountain rim fir trees, rhododendrons, and moss predominate the landscape. However, only a few hundred feet of elevation loss will bring you into dense ponderosa and lodgepole pine forests that shade a scattered madrona bush population. As you travel further east down onto the high desert the landscape becomes dominated by Western Juniper, sage, and struggling bunches of grass.
Each tier holds its own unique fauna as well. Deer abound here and are often found living in the same neighborhood that you do. Black bear and cougar exist here, but seeing one is rare. Coyotes are common and frequent nighttime choruses around the outlying areas are a treat. Hawks regularly patrol the skys looking for an unsuspecting young rock chuck (the Bend version of the wood chuck) or jackrabbit. It is truly an unusual day when one does not see some sort of wildlife just commuting to work.
The stigma of a ‘high desert’ being dry and devoid of water does not apply to Central Oregon. Numerous rivers including the world renown Deschutes River and dozens of lakes and reservoirs makes this a boating and fishing dream land. It has been said that a person could fish all of their life and not master all of the opportunities here in Central Oregon.