KWUA Warns of Reduced Water for 2026
Letter cites snow drought, low inflows, and potential need for acreage reductions
KLAMATH BASIN — The Klamath Water Users Association and multiple irrigation districts are warning farmers and ranchers to prepare for reduced irrigation water deliveries for the 2026 season, according to a letter released April 1.
Officials say extremely low snowpack and below-normal inflows to Upper Klamath Lake are creating challenging conditions heading into the irrigation year. The letter states the watershed snowpack was at just 4 percent of median as of March 31, signaling what leaders describe as a “challenging water year ahead.”
Reduced Deliveries Expected
The letter notes the Bureau of Reclamation’s 2026 Annual Operations Plan did not include specific delivery amounts but outlined operational frameworks under current federal requirements.
“Given current hydrologic conditions and the meager snowpack, our analysis indicates that water available to Klamath Project irrigators will be less than full delivery or demand,” the letter states.
Officials added that a more specific announcement from Reclamation is expected soon.
Drought Response Program Anticipated
Leaders also indicated a Drought Response Agency program will be in place for 2026, with early estimates suggesting up to 40,000 acres may need to remain unirrigated to preserve water later in the season.
“Our initial assessment is that up to 40,000 acres may need to remain unirrigated in 2026 to ensure water is available for crops in September and October,” the letter states.
Additional details about participation and funding are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
Long-Term Changes Under Review
The letter also highlighted ongoing efforts to reassess how the Endangered Species Act applies to the Klamath Project. Officials said a reconsultation process is underway and expected to be completed ahead of the 2027 irrigation season.
The goal, according to the letter, is to improve long-term reliability and reduce legal disputes while balancing agricultural, environmental, and community needs.
Community Meeting Scheduled
Officials encouraged community members to attend the KWUA Annual Meeting on April 7 at the Klamath County Fairgrounds to learn more about the 2026 outlook and future planning.
Full Letter
The full letter from the Klamath Water Users Association and irrigation districts is included below and available for download.
Cover image: Stock photo, unsplash
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