News
September 18, 2023
Tentative Fall 2023 Shut-off Schedule:
We will continue to run at our current delivery rate until October 1st. On October 1st we drop to season 5 flows (50%). The tentative season shut-off will be the week of October 15th. Weather and demand will be evaluated at the October 10th Board Meeting and the final shut-off dates will be determined at that time or sooner if a Special Board Meeting is deemed necessary.
*Please check back frequently for updates and for stock water run scheduling.
JULY 14, 2023
Flow/Delivery Update
The Deschutes River water levels have reached historic lows due to the multi-year drought affecting our region. This unfortunate situation has necessitated the implementation of water curtailing measures to ensure the sustainability of our water resources.
Effective immediately, we will be curtailing water deliveries to 60% of the normal allocation. This reduction in delivery rates is essential to conserve and stretch the available water supply during this critical time. By implementing these measures, we aim to maintain a consistent water supply throughout the irrigation season, even as the natural flows of the Deschutes River continue to decrease.
Please rest assured that Central Oregon Irrigation District is fully committed to doing everything within our power to manage the water resources effectively and mitigate the impact of the drought on our patrons. We understand the importance of water for your agricultural operations and recognize the challenges these reduced allocations may present.
We remain cautiously optimistic about our ability to navigate through this challenging period while ensuring water availability for irrigation needs. We are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to adapt our strategies as necessary to address changing conditions.
We kindly request your cooperation and understanding during these trying times. We encourage you to implement efficient irrigation practices and explore water conservation methods to make the most of the available resources. If you require assistance or guidance in optimizing your irrigation practices, our team is here to support you.
We understand that this situation may raise questions or concerns, and we are committed to providing timely updates and remaining transparent in our communication. Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office. We are here to assist you.
We greatly appreciate your cooperation, patience, and understanding as we work together to navigate this unprecedented water shortage.
7/5/23 Update: Unfortunately, the snowpack we achieved during the winter is not resulting in a significant snowmelt runoff translating to live flow. The flows in the Deschutes River are dropping, and with that, the COID delivery rates must decrease. We will be dropping to a 75 – 80% delivery rate in our system. The river flows are being closely monitored, and we will keep you updated as the flows and the COID deliveries decrease.
For Immediate Release (7/5/23)
Irrigation Districts Prepare For Water Curtailments
Flow adjustments due to the declining natural flow in the Deschutes River
Redmond, Ore – July 5, 2023 – Despite experiencing heavy rainfall and a series of spring storms, the majority of Deschutes and Crook counties remain entrenched in a state of severe drought, according to the U.S. drought monitor. Consequently, the Deschutes Basin irrigation districts are preparing for the need to curtail water as early as mid-July due to the dwindling natural flow in the Deschutes River.
Jeremy Giffin, Deschutes Basin Watermaster for the Oregon Water Resources Department, highlighted the significance of the situation, stating, “While recent rainfall has provided some relief, the long-term recovery requires several years of above-average precipitation. Unfortunately, the snowpack we achieved during the winter is not resulting in a significant snowmelt runoff translating to live flow.”
Snowmelt from accumulated snowpack is an important source of water for farmers.
“Districts relying solely on live flow are expected to experience water shortages, while those utilizing stored water will need to rely on these supplies,” said Craig Horrell, President of the Deschutes Basin Board of Control. “Ultimately, this means reduced water availability for district patrons and impacts on fish and wildlife.”
The irrigation districts are closely monitoring the situation, with Arnold, Tumalo, Central Oregon, and Lone Pine irrigation districts adjusting flows due to the declining natural flow in the Deschutes River.
In light of these developments, the districts strongly advise irrigators to proactively plan for potential water supply shortages during the summer months.
Addressing the challenging circumstances faced by the community, Horrell emphasized the irrigation districts’ commitment to implementing long-term solutions. “The frequency and intensity of these drought events pose extraordinary difficulties for farmers, fish, wildlife, and community members,” he stated. “We continue to focus on replacing leaky, open canals with closed pipes, allowing water saved from seepage below and evaporation above to support agricultural needs and contribute to the preservation of our river and wildlife.”
The Deschutes Basin Board of Control urges patrons to stay informed about the evolving situation and remain proactive in implementing water conservation measures.
The Deschutes Basin Board of Control comprises eight irrigation districts, namely Arnold, Central Oregon, Lone Pine, North Unit, Ochoco, Swalley, Three Sisters, and Tumalo. Together, these districts provide water to over 7,600 farms and ranches, as well as local cities, parks, and schools.
For more information and updates, please visit www.dbbcirrigation.com
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