Governor declares drought in Wallowa County

(NOVEMBER 14, 2024) In October, Governor Tina Kotek has declared a drought in Wallowa County. She signed an order, Executive Order 24-29, to help the county get support from state agencies. 

“Water scarcity has become the new normal for our state,” Governor Kotek said. “We’re seeing counties across Oregon experience longer drought periods at a greater frequency and outside of the expected seasonality. It is incumbent on us to chart a proactive path to protect and improve management of our state’s limited water resources for the benefit of healthy ecosystems, thriving communities and a strong economy.”

According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, Wallowa County has been in moderate drought since July 9, 2024. This drought has been going on for about four years, with high temperatures, low rainfall, and low water levels in streams and soil. These conditions are hurting Wallowa County’s natural resources and economy. Officials say that the drought will continue through the end of the farming season. Agriculture, livestock, tourism, and other areas in the county will suffer economically.

Governor Kotek’s drought declaration activates emergency help for Wallowa County, including faster services and lower fees from the Water Resources Department. The Oregon Drought Readiness Council—a group made up of natural resource, health, and emergency agencies—agreed that the drought was serious. They recommended that the Governor declare a drought. The Wallowa County Board of Commissioners also asked for this declaration in October.

State and local officials are working with federal agencies to monitor the drought closely. This is the third drought declaration Governor Kotek has made this year.