In a recent government meeting, officials from the Rosa Irrigation District and Kittitas Reclamation District provided an update on their operations amid ongoing drought conditions. This summer, both districts operated with only half of their total water supply, prompting discussions on emergency drought funding and resource management.

The Kittitas Reclamation District reported a slight increase in their pro rationing rate from 51% to 52%, allowing them to extend operations for an additional week before ceasing diversions on September 13. Despite the challenges, they managed to maintain water flow to improve spawning habitats in the region.

Rosa Irrigation District has taken proactive measures, including a temporary shutdown in May to conserve water for later use, and leasing over 12,000 acre-feet of water this year. A significant boost came in July with a surprise grant of $3.4 million, which helped cover water costs. Officials expressed gratitude to the Department of Ecology for their swift processing of seven emergency drought applications, which were completed in just two weeks.

The meeting highlighted the pressing need for more robust emergency drought funding, with Rosa spending over $4 million this year alone. Officials emphasized that the state requires at least $3 million annually to address irrigation, municipal needs, and fish and wildlife concerns. Comparatively, in 2015, the state drought fund allocated $18 million for the biennium, underscoring the growing urgency for financial support.

Senator Warnecke raised concerns about the long-term impact of drought on local agriculture, referencing the loss of trees and crops due to adverse conditions. The meeting also discussed the necessity for timely access to emergency funding, ideally before March, to facilitate early decision-making for water leases.

Additionally, officials called for streamlined grant application processes to assist smaller districts in navigating funding opportunities more efficiently. They proposed the introduction of no-interest or low-interest loans for farmers to promote conservation and enhance drought preparedness.

As the region continues to grapple with water scarcity, the discussions reflect a critical need for coordinated efforts and resources to mitigate the effects of drought on agriculture and the environment.