Hi Chuck,
Thank you for your question about eco lawns in Central Oregon.

Following are two articles which discuss the pros and cons of eco lawns:
Low Maintenance Turf? | College of Agricultural Sciences | Oregon State University
Lawns and Microclover | University of Maryland Extension (umd.edu)

The OSU article does provide contact information for questions. Nurseries that sell ecolawn seed mixes are also included. Please note that the research discussed has been done primarily in western Oregon. Microclover has been found to be successful as part of a seed mix for lawns, however, it does perform well by itself. Additionally, lawn alternatives such as microclover and wildflower mixes do need irrigation to weather the heat and drought conditions in Central Oregon.

Most of the eco-lawns have been marginally successful in our geographic area. For a solid stand of turfgrass (lawn area) Turf type tall fescues would be the lowest water/fertilizer use type to use.

You can check with Wintercreek Restoration & Nursery in Bend. The staff may have specific recommendations for creating an eco-lawn in our climate.

Additionally, you can contact this mail order company for seed possibilities:
https://www.highcountrygardens.com/product/sustainable-lawns/microclover-low-water-lawn-seed-mix

If you want to consider non-lawn alternatives, here are some recommended alternatives for Central Oregon: Clump fescues, either native or ornamental, can be substituted for traditional lawns. Woolly thyme, or the use of a dry riverbed and plants are additional alternatives to turf grass. More information is provided in the following OSU Extension publication: Water-wise Gardening in Central Oregon | OSU Extension Catalog | Oregon State University

The Water-wise Gardening publication cited above was written specifically for Central Oregon and does provide a variety of trees and shrubs that can offer screening to increase privacy. Each plant description includes photos and one or more symbols to assist you in selecting the best plants for your landscape and does include a symbol for deer-resistant plants.

To get more information on lawn alternatives in Central Oregon and specific recommendations for planting, I recommend you call the Deschutes County OSU Extension office in Redmond at<personal data hidden>. Ask to speak with Amy Jo Detweiler (oregonstate.edu), a member of the Horticulture Staff. Amy Jo welcomes your home garden questions and is a great resource.