Gov. Tina Kotek declared a state of emergency due to drought conditions in three Oregon counties Tuesday to soften an impending “natural and economic disaster” caused by drier-than-normal conditions.

The order covers Baker, Deschutes and Umatilla Counties, all of which have experienced abnormally dry weather since late spring or early summer 2025, according to the text of the order.

That shows no sign of letting up this year, since below-average rainfall and streamflow is expected into the summer, Kotek’s office said in a statement on Tuesday.

“Drought is likely to have a significant economic impact on the agricultural, livestock, natural resource and recreational tourism sectors and increase the risk of wildfire,” Kotek’s order said.

Kotek’s drought order allows the counties to access several emergency tools, her office said. It directs the Oregon Department of Agriculture to seek federal help for reducing the impact of the drought on farmers and ranchers. It also calls on the Department of Fish and Wildlife to learn how the water shortages could impact wildlife and directs state water agencies to help water users in those counties.

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