Water supply crisis in Tumalo leaves residents high and dry

TUMALO, Ore. (KTVZ) -- A Tumalo resident says his irrigation water has been completely shut off, despite having deeded water rights, as drought conditions continue to strain the area’s water supply.

Tumalo Irrigation District has been warning patrons for weeks that low flows, limited snowmelt and a district-wide shortage are affecting deliveries. In a May 15 update, the district said Tumalo Creek flows were continuing to drop and that snowmelt appeared to be over, or close to over, for the season.

KTVZ News is speaking with the Tumalo resident about what the shutoff means for his land, how it affects property owners with deeded water rights, and what options — if any — remain when the water runs out.

Tune in to KTVZ News at 6:00p.m. on Tuesday for the full report.