UPDATE: Umatilla County has officially declared a drought following an exceptionally dry winter, with significant implications for local agriculture and water resources. During a regular meeting on March 4, 2023, county commissioners, led by emergency manager Sage Delong, confirmed that the entire county is experiencing a moderate drought, with around half facing severe drought conditions.
As of now, eastern Umatilla County is facing the worst impacts. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, these conditions persist despite recent precipitation, highlighting a continuing seasonal deficit that affects soil moisture and water supply. Delong outlined that current snowpack levels range from 15% to 45% below median, raising concerns over irrigation availability and municipal water supplies.
Urgent Update: The declaration allows for the potential of a state emergency by the governor, which would unlock crucial resources for farmers and ranchers struggling with these dire conditions. County Commissioner Dan Dorran emphasized the importance of the declaration, stating that it will facilitate federal funding and enhance partnerships with state agencies to manage water resources effectively.
Local water expert JR Cook noted that the drought declaration enables vital water transfers from the Columbia River, crucial for protecting the groundwater system during this critical time. He described the groundwater as a “lifeline” for farmers, making it easier to allocate available water to the most valuable crops amid a shortened water year.
Farmers are anxious about the upcoming growing season, and with less than half of the typical snowpack, Cook states there is no feasible way to recover the shortfall. “We’re too far along to not see major impacts,” he warned, calling it “one of the worst perfect storms for agriculture we have seen for decades.”
As input costs for fuel and fertilizer surge due to global tensions, including the ongoing conflict in Iran, farmers are bracing for a challenging year. Cook stressed that without addressing the drought, the pressures on farmers would only escalate, impacting food production and availability.
Despite the challenges, Umatilla County has been working on improving its water supply system over the past decade, focusing on sustainability and resilience. Experts have been enhancing aquifer storage and recovery systems, which Cook believes will help mitigate the impacts of this drought.
The county awaits a decision from the governor regarding the emergency declaration, expected within the next two weeks. If approved, it would provide much-needed relief and better planning capabilities for farmers as they navigate this challenging agricultural landscape.
Stay tuned for further updates as this situation develops. The implications of this declaration will affect not only the local economy but also the broader agricultural landscape in the region. Sharing this news can help raise awareness about the urgent needs of Umatilla County during this critical time.
