In a recent meeting of the Joint Legislative Committee on Water Supply During Drought, held on June 11, 2025, significant concerns were raised regarding the ongoing water crisis in Central Washington, particularly affecting the Rosa Irrigation District. The district, which oversees 72,000 irrigated acres and has a crop value of approximately $1.5 billion, is grappling with one of the driest years on record, prompting urgent discussions about water management and conservation strategies.

The policy director of the Rosa Irrigation District highlighted the dire situation, noting that the district has already experienced a 10-day shutdown of water delivery due to low reservoir levels. The forecast for water supply has been troubling, with current estimates indicating only 43% availability, a stark decline from earlier projections. This situation is compounded by a history of drought, with six out of the last ten years marked by water shortages, leading to a pressing need for effective drought management strategies.

The meeting underscored the importance of water rights in the Yakima Basin, where water is categorized into senior, proratable, and junior rights. Senior rights holders receive full allocations, while those with junior rights face significant cuts. This system has become increasingly strained as water availability diminishes, impacting farmers' ability to sustain their crops.

To mitigate the effects of the drought, the Rosa Irrigation District has implemented several measures, including water delivery restrictions and proactive water conservation efforts. The district has invested over $85 million in conservation programs since 1983, with $3.4 million allocated for drought funding this year alone. Additionally, the district has engaged in leasing water and employing innovative practices such as "pump backs" to reclaim water lost through leaks.

The impact of the drought is already visible, with reports indicating that approximately 8,000 acres of crops, including grapes and apples, have been removed this spring due to market conditions and water scarcity. This figure represents a significant increase from the previous year, highlighting the urgent need for ongoing support and funding for drought resilience.

The meeting concluded with calls for enhanced emergency funding and long-term drought resiliency initiatives. Stakeholders emphasized the necessity of securing water for both agricultural needs and ecological health, particularly for fish populations affected by low water levels. The discussions reflect a growing recognition of the need for comprehensive strategies to address the challenges posed by climate change and prolonged drought conditions in Washington State.

As the situation evolves, the Rosa Irrigation District and its partners continue to seek solutions to navigate this challenging water year, underscoring the critical importance of effective water management in sustaining both the agricultural economy and the environment.