Yakima Basin irrigators face cuts amid worsening water outlook

Irrigators with junior water rights in the Yakima River basin are facing one of the most severe water shortages on record, with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation lowering its July 30 forecast to 40% of full water allotments. The agency warned supply could fall as low as 35% if dry conditions persist, with another update expected Aug. 7, according to reporting by the Capital Press. 

The district, which normally delivers water through mid-October, plans to shut down early on Aug. 13 due to reservoir depletion. Farmers relying on late-season irrigation—especially for fruit crops—may need to turn to on-farm storage or groundwater if available. 

The basin’s five reservoirs currently hold just 56% of average capacity for this time of year. Initial April forecasts predicted a 58% allotment, but the estimate has steadily declined due to a weak snowpack, lackluster rainfall and lingering drought conditions from 2024. 

While senior water rights holders (pre-1905) will receive their full allotments, junior users have now faced curtailments for three consecutive years.