NOTICE TO KLAMATH PROJECT IRRIGATORS: 2026 DROUGHT RESPONSE PROGRAM OPEN NOW!
As you are aware, irrigation water supply for the Klamath Project this year will fall well short of what is needed to sustain normal operations for family farms and ranches.
On April 6, the Bureau of Reclamation announced an initial water availability of 221,000 acre-feet from Upper Klamath Lake, representing just over half of the volume required for full Project deliveries. This reflects a combination of very low snowpack and resulting snow drought conditions, early spring-like weather conditions, and requirements to operate under an unworkable set of regulatory requirements that can’t be changed in time for this season.
Based on these conditions, 40,000 to 50,000 acres within the Project will need to be idled during the 2026 season.
In response, the Klamath Project Drought Response Agency (KPDRA) has now opened the 2026 annual program and is accepting applications during the enrollment period of April 15 through June 15. Up to $19.1 million is available, with estimated payments ranging from $300 to $350 per acre. The program is intended to provide an option for irrigators as they make operational decisions for the coming season.
Additional information, including program details and enrollment materials, is available at www.klamathwaterbank.com. Irrigators should review the program as they evaluate their plans for 2026 and carefully review eligibility requirements. For example, to qualify for full payment, a parcel must receive no irrigation water from any source (surface or groundwater) from November 1, 2025, through October 31, 2026. Applicants should review the program policy for additional eligibility requirements.
The KPDRA and KWUA will host workshops to assist participants with the sign-up process and to answer questions about the program. Workshop details will be shared soon.
Irrigators are encouraged to stay informed as conditions evolve and to consider available programs and tools as part of their planning for the 2026 irrigation season.
