Gov. Kotek declared a drought in Sherman and Lake counties through Executive Order 23-08 and directed state agencies to coordinate and prioritize assistance to the region

Medford, OR – According to the state officials, both counties are reportedly experiencing moderate (D1) to severe (D2) drought conditions, with over 90% of Lake County and 94% of Sherman County in drought.

State officials also said that the conditions have progressively worsened over winter and spring due to well below average precipitation.

While most of Oregon has seen drought conditions improve over the year, drought conditions in Sherman County have worsened from moderate to severe drought due to well below average precipitation.

Streamflows in Sherman County are measuring at 88% of the long-term average. 

Drought is likely to have a significant economic impact on the farm, ranch, recreation, tourism and natural resources sectors, as well as an impact on drinking water, fish and wildlife, and important minimum flows for public instream uses and other natural resources dependent on adequate precipitation, stored water, and streamflow in these areas.

Extreme conditions are expected to affect local growers and livestock, increase the potential for fire, shorten the growing season, and decrease water supplies.

The drought declaration by Governor Kotek unlocks a number of drought-related emergency tools for water users, including assistance to local water users.

Drought declarations also allow the Water Resources Department to expedite review processes and reduce fee schedules.