http://droughtreporter.unl.edu/

v 2.4.3.0

Years of drought in Oregon have led to reductions in irrigation water for growers relying on the Deschutes River. The North Unit Irrigation District in Jefferson County, for example, has had less than 50% of full water allotments for the past four years. Consequently, farmers have planted fewer crops, and cattle ranchers have had to buy more grain or feed for lack of water for pastures. A rancher near Madras sold more than 40% of his 5,000 cattle because his rangeland could not support the livestock as it used to do. Some farmers have even considered leaving the industry. Oregon Public Broadcasting (Portland), Feb 13, 2024