Drought declared for Umatilla, Union, Grant, and Wasco counties

By Terry Murry on Tuesday, June 29th, 2021 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

SALEM – Oregon Gov. Kate Brown signed a state of drought emergency declaration at the request of Umatilla, Union, Grant, and Wasco counties today (Tuesday). In the declaration she stated the Drought Readiness Council and the Water Supply Availability Committee both recommended declaring a state of drought.

“Forecasted water supply conditions and precipitation levels are not expected to improve,” the declaration states. “Drought is likely to have a significant economic impact on the farm, ranch, vineyard, recreation, and natural resources sectors, as well as an impact on drinking water, fish and wildlife, and other natural resources dependent on adequate precipitation, stored water, and stream flow in these areas.”

The declaration enables state agencies to offer assistance in drought mitigation. It also orders the Department of Agriculture to coordinate and provide assistance in agricultural recover as well as help from the Oregon Water Resources Department and Water Resources Commission.

The executive order will expire on Dec. 31.