Grappling with Growth
Join us for a series exploring how urban growth is shaping our region. From Bend’s economic evolution and Oregon’s land use laws to the challenge of preserving what makes this place special, we’ll dig into the big questions: What makes a community flourish? How do we balance development with livability? What future do we want to build? Each event offers conversation, local insight and the chance to shape a shared vision for what comes next.
Registration Information | Return to High Desert Project Homepage
Event 1: How Did We Get Here?
Tuesday, October 21 | 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm
High Desert Museum
Unpack Bend’s economic past, present and future with economist Damon Runberg as we tackle questions around: What drives our growth? What’s the “second paycheck,” and how does it affect us all? What happens if we stop growing — or grow too fast?
Event 2: Building Bend
Saturday, November 1 | 1:00 pm to 6:30 pm
Meet in town (TBA)
Travel to several sites in Bend with Paul Dewey, founder of Central Oregon LandWatch, and Mike Hollern of Brooks Resources to learn about the history of development in Bend. Explore current projects that will impact our future and discuss Oregon’s unique land use laws and how they have shaped Bend’s growth.
Event 3: Tackling the Amenity Trap
Wednesday, November 12 | 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm
High Desert Museum
The region’s natural beauty fuels both tourism and local life — but can we keep it that way? Learn how outdoor recreation, economic pressure and population growth intersect — and how other cities navigate similar challenges, with Megan Lawson from Headwaters Economics.
Event 4: Envisioning Our Future
Saturday, November 15 | 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Meet in town (TBA)
Where do you want Central Oregon to be in 10 years, and how can public art help us envision our future? Join a conversation with local artist Evan Namkung, who has created several iconic murals in Bend. Through collaborative mapping and reflection, we’ll imagine what to protect, what to change and how to move forward together. Photo courtesy Mataio Gillis
Registration Information
We request that participants attend all four events. There is no cost to attend, but space is limited and registration is required. If you are interested in learning more, click the button below and fill out the participation form by September 19, 2025. Please contact Isabel Engel at iengel@highdesertmuseum.org or 541-382-4754, ext. 284 with all questions.
