Dealing with Drought
Whether you own a large agricultural property, or are managing a small lot, there are many things we can all do to help conserve water. In addition there are many city, state and federal programs to help provide assistance and incentives for farmers and producers wondering how they will irrigate this year, or to help implement projects that will help our region make the best use of our limited water.
Some of the available project examples include:
- Improving your irrigation efficiency
- Adding organic matter and improving moisture retention in your soil
- Converting thirsty lawns to water wise landscaping and xeriscaping
- Making the most of your water with graywater systems, rain gardens, rain catchment and more.
Our staff can help you build a customized plan to conserve and maximize your water resources! Contact Kora Mousseaux for water-wise landscaping and design, Meghan Montgomery for agricultural concerns or questions, and Paul Demaggio for questions about irrigation.
Drought Resources
2021 Jackson County Drought DeclarationJSWCD Drought Presentation Recording
Water Conservation Options for Water Users and Land Managers: This class provides an overview of existing drought conditions in Jackson County and presents a variety of actions that may be taken by water users and land managers to cope with the existing drought, and to prepare for future droughts. The focus is on planning considerations, water conservaton costs and practices, as well as funding opportunities.
Rogue Valley Irrigation Districts
Eagle Point Irrigation District
Rogue River Valley Irrigation District
Grants Pass Irrigation District
Reservoir Levels & Flow Rates
United States Bureau of Reclamation
United States Army Corps of Engineers
Current Drought Information
Current U.S. Drought Monitor Conditions for Oregon
Oregon Water Resources Department Drought Watch
Medford Water Commission Drought Page
Drought & Agriculture
Forage & Droughts, OSU Extension
Farm Management For & During Drought
Drought & Gardening
City of Ashland Water Wise Gardening Guide
Quick Tips & Tricks You Can Start Today:
- Capture your kitchen grey water in a washtub in your sink and use it to water plants in and around your home.
- Cut your shower time by 2 minutes-for every 2 minutes cut, you'll save about 10 gallons of water!
- Wash dishes and clothes only when loads are full.
- Water your lawn less often and for longer when you do water. This will encourage deeper roots and use less water over the long-run. Check out the Medford Water Commission's reccomendations.
