September 1, 2006
Klamath Falls Herald and News Editorial
Wet winters in Oregon are better than dry ones - at least as far as the Klamath Basin is concerned. Snow-clogged roads are problems for cold-weather drivers, but a good supply of water during the following irrigation season more than makes up for the discomfort.
The importance of knowing how much water there's going to be means people pay attention to the long-range forecasts issued by the Oregon Climate Service, which is affiliated with Oregon State University's College of Oceanic and Atmospheric Sciences.
The annual winter prediction came out this week and state Climatologist George Taylor referred to it as “less extreme and even dull” compared to last year. We'd take “dull” if it meant adequate water for the Klamath Basin, but that may not be the case.
After plowing through the data, Taylor and his staff are predicting that the first part of winter will be wetter than average in most of Oregon and, average in eastern Oregon during the second part.
“Average” precipitation normally isn't good enough to fulfill all of the commitments made for Klamath Basin water.
Thus, dull winter weather could mean a contentious summer for the Basin. The outlook also serves as a reminder of how important it is to work to solve the Basin's water problems, including development of long-term water storage.
Pat Bushy wrote today's editorial, which represents the view of the Herald and News editorial board.
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