Jefferson County's agricultural community is grinding through one of the toughest summers in recent memory, with 94 percent of the county classified under severe drought and the remainder under moderate drought conditions — leaving virtually no part of the county unaffected by the ongoing water crisis.

Governor Tina Kotek declared a drought emergency for Jefferson County earlier this year as part of a broader multi-county declaration, citing historically low snowpack, one of the warmest winters in state history, and multi-year precipitation deficits. The declaration was designed to help prioritize assistance to affected regions and open the door to potential state and federal resources for farmers and ranchers.

Water Tight Across the County

For irrigated operations on and around the Crooked River and Deschutes tributaries, the 2026 irrigation season has been defined by curtailed water rights and pressure to stretch every available acre-foot. Non-irrigated dryland farming has fared even worse, with soil moisture deficits leading to reduced yields on grains and hay.

Local ranchers have been hit on two fronts: dwindling pasture forage from the dry conditions has forced many to cull herds earlier than planned or purchase expensive hay to keep cattle through the summer. Water hauling to stock tanks on remote rangeland has become a daily reality for operations across the county's eastern reaches near Ashwood and Shaniko.

A Difficult Pattern

Oregon water officials say 2026 drought conditions are comparable to 2015, when a record snow drought stressed farms across 25 of Oregon's 36 counties. Jefferson County entered 2026 already carrying a precipitation deficit from prior dry years, leaving reservoirs and groundwater at reduced levels heading into the growing season.

With no meaningful rain expected through late August and fire weather adding additional stress to already parched rangeland, agricultural producers are being urged to work with the Oregon Water Resources Department and local irrigation districts on water management planning for the remainder of the season.

Resources for Producers

  • Oregon Drought Watch: oregon.gov/owrd (updated weekly)
  • USDA Farm Service Agency - Madras office: Farmers can inquire about Emergency Loan programs triggered by disaster declarations
  • Jefferson County Extension Service: Offering drought management resources and livestock forage assistance guidance

The Madras Bulletin will continue covering the drought's impact on Jefferson County's farming and ranching communities through the remainder of the season.