How Much Water Is Available In Southern Oregon?

Last week, the Bureau of Reclamation announced the initial 2026 Klamath Project water supply allocations that include 221,000 acre-feet from Upper Klamath Lake, 35,000 acre-feet from Gerber Reservoir, and 35,000 acre-feet from Clear Lake Reservoir.  In addition, Reclamation is also making $19.1 million in drought resiliency funding available to be administered through the Klamath Project Drought Response Agency.  The Bureau said the allocation reflects ongoing efforts to maximize available supplies in a year shaped by warm storms, limited snowpack, and constrained spring inflows.  

Klamath Project allocations are based on estimated water availability and include current reservoir storage, precipitation, snowpack, and operating criteria.

The Project delivers water to approximately 230,000 acres in southern Oregon and northern California, including two national wildlife refuges. The initial allocation of 221,000 acre-feet available for lands served by Upper Klamath Lake is about 63% of full supply. The 35,000 acre-feet from Gerber and Clear Lake reservoirs is considered a full supply.

We Are Working To Support Klamath Basin Farmers

“Even in a year with unpredictable water conditions, Reclamation’s priority remains the same: deliver as much water as possible to the Klamath Project,” said Acting Commissioner Scott Cameron. “We are working closely with our partners to make sure every available acre-foot truly supports producers and the communities that depend on Klamath Basin agriculture.”

“We understand the strain limited supplies place on producers, communities and businesses across the Basin,” said Acting Regional Director Adam Nickels. “Along with tracking hydrologic conditions and adjusting operations to improve reliability, Reclamation will ensure drought relief funds are administered efficiently to mitigate the impacts of this year’s allocation.”

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