This fall’s wildfires in Oregon have caused ongoing challenges for municipal water systems. Water managers outlined those issues during a hearing Tuesday of the Oregon House Interim Committee on Water. Some infrastructure was damaged by the flames themselves, although work to repair and replace equipment began before the fires were completely contained. Workers inspect fire damage at the Panther Creek Water District near Otis, which was in the path of the Echo Mountain Complex Fire. Credit Oregon Water Utility Council But the long-term impact to watersheds is an ongoing concern. Josh Seeds of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality said increased sediment run-off in burn zones could cause long-term headaches that will increase expenses.