Governor Kotek declares drought emergency in three Oregon counties, including Deschutes

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Governor Tina Kotek declared a drought emergency in Deschutes, Baker, and Umatilla counties through Executive Order 26-05. The declaration comes as forecasts suggest below-normal precipitation and streamflow conditions will likely continue through the summer.

This is the first drought declaration issued by Governor Kotek during the 2026 calendar year. The order directs state agencies to coordinate and prioritize assistance to the region to mitigate impacts on local growers, livestock, and water supplies.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, Baker County has experienced persistent moderate drought conditions since June 2025. Deschutes County has seen abnormally dry and moderate drought conditions since that same month. In Umatilla County, moderate and severe drought conditions have been persistent since May 2025. All three counties currently report well below-normal snowpack and drier-than-normal soil moisture.

Forecasts suggest that below-normal precipitation and streamflow conditions are likely to continue through the summer months. These projections follow an extended period of weather conditions that contributed to low snowpack and above-normal temperatures. Well below-normal streamflow forecasts are currently in place for all affected counties.

The drought is expected to have a significant economic impact on the farm, ranch, recreation, and tourism sectors. Natural resources, including drinking water and minimum flows for fish and wildlife, are also at risk. State officials expect the extreme conditions to shorten the growing season for local growers and increase the potential for wildfire.

The declaration unlocks several emergency tools, including assistance for local water users. It allows the Oregon Water Resources Department to expedite review processes and reduce fee schedules for those in the region. The move follows a recommendation from the state's Water Supply Availability Committee pursuant to Oregon Revised Statutes 536.740.