Emergency Drought Declared In Three Oregon Counties

On Tuesday, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek declared a drought in Baker, Deschutes, and Umatilla counties.  By signing Executive Order 2605, Kotek has ordered state agencies to coordinate and prioritize relief efforts.

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, dry conditions have persisted for these three counties since spring 2025, with below-normal precipitation, higher-than-normal temperatures, low snowpack, leading to reduced stream flows.  Unfortunately, forecasts show little relief ahead with dry conditions expected to continue in the coming months. 

In addition to hitting the farming and ranching sectors, Kotek’s office warns this drought will impact tourism, natural resources, fish and wildlife while increasing the risk of wildfires.  The declaration activates emergency tools, including support for water users and allows the state to speed up water-related reviews and reduce fees. 

This is Kotek’s first drought declaration of 2026.  Here office said state and local agencies, along with federal partners, will continue to monitor conditions closely.

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