Umatilla County Declares Drought Amid Severe Water Shortage

URGENT UPDATE: Umatilla County has officially declared a county-wide drought following an exceptionally dry winter. This declaration, made during a regular meeting on March 4, 2023, impacts the entire county, with nearly half of it experiencing severe drought conditions.

County emergency manager Sage Delong reported that the drought is particularly acute on the eastern side of the county, as confirmed by the U.S. Drought Monitor. The board’s decision underscores a growing crisis affecting soil moisture, runoff potential, and overall water supply outlook.

“This situation persists despite recent precipitation and reflects an ongoing seasonal deficit,” Delong noted, highlighting that precipitation levels across the region have been significantly below normal. Current snowpack measurements are alarming, reported to be 15% to 45% below median. This deficit threatens irrigation capabilities and poses risks for municipal water supplies, as well as increasing the likelihood of wildfires.

The drought declaration enables the state governor to issue a state of emergency, unlocking vital resources for local farmers and ranchers. Dan Dorran, County Commissioner and Board Chair, emphasized the importance of this declaration: “If the state endorses it, we can access federal funding and enhance partnerships with state agencies.” This would facilitate more efficient water distribution to mitigate the crisis.

Local water expert JR Cook, founder of the Northeast Oregon Water Association, described the declaration as crucial for managing water transfers from the Columbia River. This strategy aims to protect the region’s groundwater, which Cook refers to as a “lifeline” during emergencies. He expressed concern about the upcoming agricultural season, stating, “Farmers need to understand their water portfolio for the year ahead. With less than half of the median snowpack, there’s no way to compensate for the shortfall.”

Cook also warned of compounded challenges due to rising input costs, including fuel and fertilizer, exacerbated by global conflicts. “This is probably one of the worst perfect storms for agriculture we have seen for decades,” he asserted, stressing the urgency for action.

The region’s efforts in developing a sustainable water supply system over the past decade have been crucial. Cook pointed out that improvements in aquifer storage and recovery are vital for resilience during drought years. “You can’t plan for a drought year the year it happens,” he stated. “We’ve been building these regional systems for this very reason.”

Despite these preparations, challenges remain severe. If the state declares a formal emergency, it will provide much-needed relief to producers, allowing them to strategize for the growing season amid these dire conditions. The implications of this drought declaration will be felt across the community, and all eyes are on the governor’s response in the coming weeks.

Stay tuned for further updates as this critical situation unfolds.