Flexibility and conservation efforts urged as drought unfolds in Oregon

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Drought conditions are continuing to impact water availability and irrigation operations across the region. Ongoing uncertainty for water supply is directly influenced by snowmelt and runoff into Crane Prairie Reservoir.

According to the Central Oregon Irrigation District, managing through drought requires flexibility, patience and conservation efforts across the water system. Conditions may change quickly depending on weather, streamflows, reservoir storage and state regulations.

In communication to KTVZ News, the district is urging people to be prepared for potential reduced or curtailed deliveries throughout the season. Operational adjustments may also be necessary to help stretch limited supplies and maximizing irrigation efficiency is encouraged.

District staff and the Board will continue to closely monitor snowpack, reservoir levels and streamflow data. Operational decisions will be based on established drought stages and triggers.

A planned delivery schedule has been outlined for the season.

75% flow: May 1 – May 14
100% flow: May 15 – September 15
75% flow: September 16 – September 30
50% flow: October 1 – end of season

Flows may fluctuate throughout the season depending on drought conditions, reservoir levels, river flows, weather patterns and overall water availability. Additional reductions or operational adjustments may become necessary if conditions worsen.

A 50% flow rate is scheduled to begin Oct. 1 and continue through the end of the season.