The initial irrigation water allocation for the Klamath Project in 2026 is expected to fall significantly short of agricultural needs, according to the Klamath Water Users Association. The Bureau of Reclamation announced 221,000 acre-feet from Upper Klamath Lake, just over half of what is typically required. Officials say drought conditions, minimal snowpack, and regulatory constraints are contributing factors, and more than 40,000 acres may need to be idled this season.

The Klamath Water Users Association is warning of reduced irrigation water deliveries for the 2026 season due to extremely low snowpack. Officials say up to 40,000 acres may need to remain unirrigated to preserve water later in the year. A community meeting is planned to discuss conditions and next steps.

The Klamath Irrigation District is seeking public input on a proposed infrastructure modernization project aimed at improving water delivery efficiency and strengthening drought resilience across the basin. An in-person public meeting is scheduled for April 9 in Merrill, where community members can learn about the proposal, ask questions, and provide feedback on the draft plan.

KWUA says the 2026 Klamath Project Annual Operations Plan sets water management parameters but stops short of confirming irrigation allocations, which are expected by April 1.

The DeHoop family’s journey from Dutch immigrants to Klamath Basin agricultural leaders spans generations, shaping both the region’s dairy industry and its economic resilience. Their story reflects the promise of the American Dream and the challenges facing modern agriculture in the Basin.