Full Water Flow Scheduled To Start In Central Oregon On Friday

The Central Oregon Irrigation District is reminding growers that drought conditions continue to impact water supplies across the region, affecting irrigation operations throughout the season.  Snowmelt and runoff are influencing storage levels at Crane Prairie Reservoir, creating uncertainty for water availability.

COID officials say users should prepare for possible reduced deliveries, operational adjustments, and a continued focus on water conservation and irrigation efficiency.

Plans called for 75% water flow through Thursday May 14th, with that amount scheduled to increase to full flow Friday May 15th through mid-September, before tapering later in the season.  Officials caution that deliveries may still fluctuate depending on drought conditions, reservoir levels, river flows, and weather patterns.

District officials add early-season deliveries are intentionally limited as part of a state-regulated ramp-up process designed to protect the Deschutes River and stabilize canal operations.

Currently, 12 of Oregon’s 36 counites, including Deschutes, are under a drought declaration from Governor Tina Kotek.

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