MADRAS, OR --Jefferson County is the first in the state to receive a drought declaration this year.Governor Tina Kotek approved the request made by County Commissioners in April. 
According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, Jefferson County has been drought free since mid-March, but farmers have said they will not receive enough water for their fields this summer due to several years of dry conditions. Kotek’s office agreed this week, saying forecasted water supply conditions and precipitation levels are not expected to improve.

Read the full declaration HERE.