Drought emergency now covers 12 of Oregon’s 36 counties after 3rd declaration this year

SALEM, Ore. (KATU) — Governor Tina Kotek has declared drought emergencies in three Oregon counties.

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Through Executive Order 26-08, the governor has directed state agencies to coordinate and prioritize assistance in Coos, Klamath, and Wheeler counties.

“In total, 12 of Oregon’s 36 counties are now under drought emergency status,” the Governor’s office said. “According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, Coos, Klamath and Wheeler Counties are experiencing moderate and severe drought conditions, with extreme drought conditions present in parts of Wheeler County.”

This is the third drought declaration that has been issued this year.

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“Drought conditions are expected to significantly affect Oregon’s farms, ranches, recreation and tourism sectors, drinking water availability, fish and wildlife habitats, and other natural resource-dependent activities,” the Governor’s office said. “Extreme dryness will likely shorten the growing season, decrease water supplies, and increase wildfire risk.”

The declaration allows certain emergency tools to be available for affected communities including assistance for local water users.