As Jefferson County farmers move through the heart of irrigation season, drought conditions across the county remain severe — and in some areas, extreme. The data paints a stark picture for local agriculture heading into the hottest weeks of summer.
As of late spring, 94 percent of Jefferson County was classified under severe drought, with the remainder in moderate drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. More recent June data showed portions of Jefferson County entering extreme drought — one step below the worst classification of exceptional drought.
State Drought Emergency Declared
In April, Governor Tina Kotek declared a drought emergency covering Jefferson County along with Crook, Grant, Jackson, Morrow, and Wallowa counties — the second such declaration issued in Oregon in 2026. The emergency declaration authorizes state agencies to expedite assistance, including water use coordination, emergency water hauling support, and streamlined access to drought relief programs.
The declaration reflects a troubling trend: Oregon entered 2026 with historically low snowpack, one of the warmest winters on record, and multi-year precipitation deficits. Conditions drew comparisons to the 2015 snow drought that triggered emergency declarations in 25 of Oregons 36 counties.
What It Means for Local Producers
For Jefferson Countys ranching and farming community — anchored by hay production, cattle operations, and irrigated crops — reduced water availability affects not just this seasons yields but herd sizes and long-term planning. Producers relying on irrigation districts may face reduced water allotments as reservoir levels drop.
The Crooked River basin, which supplies irrigation water to much of Jefferson County, has seen diminished flows that compound the pressure on water rights holders — particularly junior water rights holders who are the first to face curtailments when supply tightens.
Fire Danger Adds to Agricultural Stress
The same conditions driving drought are also pushing wildfire danger to extreme levels across Central Oregon. Dry fields, stressed grasses, and low humidity create elevated risk of fire spreading rapidly into agricultural land. Farmers and ranchers are urged to take precautions, avoid running equipment during the hottest parts of the day, and ensure firebreaks are maintained around structures and equipment.
What Producers Can Do
The Oregon Water Resources Departments drought watch page at oregon.gov/owrd provides current drought monitor information and resources. Producers with questions about water rights curtailment or emergency water assistance can contact the department directly. The USDA Farm Service Agency also administers drought-related disaster programs for eligible producers.
As one of Oregons most agriculturally productive counties, Jefferson Countys ability to weather the drought will depend on water management, proactive planning, and continued access to state and federal support programs.