Oregon Ethics Commission investigates VP of irrigation district for alleged water misuse

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Oregon Government Ethics Commission has launched a formal investigation into Karl Nulton, vice president of the Three Sisters Irrigation District board, over accusations he misused his office to obtain irrigation water during restrictions, according to reporting from the Prineville Review.

The investigation follows a preliminary review where it was alleged that Nulton instructed district staff not to shut off his irrigation despite a district-wide water delivery reduction to 80%, which required junior water users to cease watering. The complaint suggests that Nulton may have used his position to continue irrigating, potentially gaining a financial benefit not available to other district patrons.

"We are moving forward not because we have found there to be a violation, but because we have expressed a need for more information," said Commission Chair Dave Fiskum.

Nulton, who appeared at the commission meeting with his wife, denied any misuse of his position or financial gain. He explained that he was out of town when the cutoff occurred and had left his automated sprinklers running after fertilizing his field. "There were four days that I watered of the seven days in question," he stated, emphasizing that he donates all of his hay and does not sell any of it.

The investigation will explore whether Nulton had access or authority that other irrigators did not. Several commissioners raised questions about the penalty charges for unauthorized water use and whether non-board members could also request water extensions under similar circumstances.

Nulton indicated his willingness to pay any penalty charge if one were issued, and noted that he had informed district staff of his situation. The Commission clarified that typical outcomes in such cases are dismissals or letters of education, with the investigation expected to conclude before the six-month statutory window.

The outcome of the investigation will determine if Nulton improperly used his position to access irrigation water, potentially setting a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.