To Keep The Deschutes River Clean, ‘Two Ply’ Goes On ‘Poo Patrol’ Bureau Of Land Management Contractor Jerry Christensen Is Saving The Deschutes River One Roll Of Tp At A Time.

In the scenic canyons of the Deschutes River, amidst the rugged bluffs and fragrant sagebrush, Jerry Christensen finds himself knee-deep in a job that truly stinks. Imagine the classic image of an outhouse – the sun-bleached plywood structure, bearing the faded emblem of the Bureau of Land Management. This is where Christensen spends his days, scrubbing the plastic toilet seats of these secluded havens. As he embarks on his weekly rounds, a task he affectionately refers to as the "Poo Patrol," Christensen loads his handmade mahogany drift boat with all the essentials: buckets, bleach, and an abundance of toilet paper. He sets sail from the town of Warm Springs, gracefully navigating the river's currents for nearly 50 miles until he reaches the take-out point near Maupin. Along this scenic journey, he encounters a unique collection of outhouses that can only be accessed by boat – 13 in total. "Any other river, it's pack it in, pack it out," Christensen explains. "But the Deschutes River is different. It's the only river in the state with maintained bathrooms along its course." The Deschutes River has been an enduring favorite among Oregon's outdoor enthusiasts for decades. Beloved by river runners and anglers alike, it welcomes hundreds of permits daily for recreational floats. With such high traffic, the accumulation of human waste can reach staggering amounts – over a ton per week. Enter Christensen, the unsung hero of the Deschutes. His diligent work ensures that campsites remain free from pollution and the river itself stays pristine. Armed with cleaning supplies, he embraces the responsibility of maintaining these remote outhouses, accessible only to those venturing down the river. For those who find themselves answering nature's call while floating on the Deschutes, Christensen's efforts are a godsend. His dedication to the cleanliness and functionality of these riverside facilities has earned him a local celebrity status, fondly referred to as "Two-ply." You might wonder how someone could derive such enthusiasm from a job that many would consider less than glamorous. The answer lies in the profound connection Christensen feels with the river and the invaluable service he provides to fellow adventurers. Amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Deschutes River, Christensen finds purpose and fulfillment in his role as the guardian of these hidden oases. He ensures that both nature and its visitors can coexist harmoniously, allowing everyone to appreciate the wonders of the river without leaving an unsightly mess in their wake. So, the next time you embark on a float down the Deschutes, take a moment to appreciate the dedicated work of "Two-ply" Christensen. He may have a dirty job, but he's making the river experience a cleaner and more enjoyable one for all who venture along its currents.