Fall may be close, but trees still need water, La Grande parks and recreation reminds
By Garrett Christensen on Monday, August 31st, 2026 in Northeastern Oregon News Northeastern Oregon Top Stories
LA GRANDE – Temperatures are finally decreasing as the final days of summer wind down. However, while the sun may not be scorching as much lately, the majority of Oregon (including Union County) still remain under drought conditions. That means trees still need to be watered regularly, as recently reminded by La Grande Parks and Recreation.
As of August 25, the U.S. Drought Monitor Reports that 44.50% of Union County is still under severe drought, 53.68% (Including La Grande) is under extreme drought, while the remaining 1.82% is under exceptional drought. Until fall precipitation truly arrives, urban trees still need a helping hand to stay healthy. For anyone that may be curious, La Grande Parks and Rec recently posted the following reasons to water trees consistently:
- When a tree becomes drought stressed, it can cause root death, leaf and limb drop, and stunted growth.
- Even mature trees with developed roots are at risk of damage from drought stress.
- When your tree’s health declines, it can become a hazard- dropping large limbs and eventually dying.
For watering tips, Parks and Rec also posted:
- Water slowly in the mornings and evenings to reduce evaporation.
- Mulch your tree roots with wood chips. This helps retain moisture and add organic matter to improve the soil.
- Water based on your tree’s size. Aim for at least 15-gallons of water per week for new, small trees (less than five years old). Mature trees will need more water. Unlike grass/turf, trees benefit from deep, infrequent watering.
