UPDATE: Umatilla County has officially declared a drought, with emergency manager Sage Delong reporting alarming conditions that affect the entire region. This declaration, made during the commissioners’ meeting on March 4, 2023, comes as nearly half the county faces severe drought conditions, particularly on the eastern side.
The U.S. Drought Monitor confirms that despite recent precipitation, the region suffers from a significant seasonal deficit that compromises soil moisture, runoff potential, and overall water supply outlook. Delong noted that snowpack levels are shockingly low, ranging from 15% to 45% below median levels, raising concerns over irrigation and municipal water availability.
Officials emphasize the urgency of the situation, warning that continued drought could worsen wildfire risks and severely impact local agriculture. County Commissioner Dan Dorran stated that declaring a county-wide drought allows for potential state and federal emergency declarations, unlocking vital resources for farmers and ranchers. He expects a decision from the governor regarding a state of emergency within two weeks.
The declaration not only facilitates water transfers from the Columbia River, helping to protect the region’s groundwater but also aids farmers in planning for a challenging growing season. JR Cook, founder of the Northeast Oregon Water Association, highlighted that the declaration enables quicker access to water for essential crops, alleviating some pressure from a system already strained by low snowpack.
Cook expressed concerns over the upcoming year, stating, “Even if we had a really wet spring, that doesn’t allow you to catch up on snowpack.” He warns that farmers are already facing high input costs—exacerbated by global issues such as the war in Iran—and low crop prices, making this drought declaration even more critical.
“This is probably one of the worst perfect storms for agriculture we have seen for decades,” Cook added. Without proper measures, farmers could face dire consequences, threatening food supply chains.
As the situation develops, the focus remains on how state agencies can mobilize resources effectively. With a robust water supply system developed over the past decade, experts believe the region is better prepared than before. However, the challenges ahead remain significant, and officials urge immediate action to mitigate the impacts of this unprecedented drought.
Stay tuned for further updates as Umatilla County navigates this urgent situation.
