Oregon Water Resources Department

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek has declared a drought emergency in three central and eastern Oregon counties after an abnormally dry and warm winter brings concern of water availability.

Federal data shows most of the state is well below normal snowpack totals,

As Oregon more actively enforces state rules around water usage, some farmers have learned that they’ve been operating illegally for years.

Whoever Gov. Kotek appoints to the job will be in the middle of intense water conflicts worsened by drought, climate change and development.

The nine federally-recognized tribes in Oregon and state agencies that regulate water are working towards a mutual partnership.

A survey and meetings come as Oregon agencies weather criticism for mishandling water resources.

The state of Oregon has denied a permit application from Willamette Water Company for water rights on the McKenzie River. The Veneta-based Willamette…