Farmers and ranchers across Oregon are increasingly facing challenges related to extreme drought and heat. While emergency funds have been made available to producers impacted by these pressures in recent years, their recurrence indicates the need for both pre-emptive and longer-term solutions.
The Oregon State Legislature requested that Oregon State University Extension Services conduct a statewide needs assessment with Oregon farmers and ranchers to pursue this goal. The project team conducted 59 in-depth interviews over seven months, resulting in the following report. All activities and support needs noted in the report are grounded in farmer and rancher input and are intended to help frame and inform future policies and decision-making related to drought and heat in Oregon agriculture.
Use the link below to explore a story map summary of the project's findings, or use the button at the bottom of the page to read the full report. The report provides an overview of what actions are already being taken by producers to manage drought and heat and what resources and support they need to become more resilient in the face of these challenges.
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Bioswale on a blueberry farm in N. Willamette
Photo: Berit Dinsdale -
Windbreak behind pasture ground
Photo: Berit Dinsdale -
Sump pump draining off excess water from berry fields
Photo: Berit Dinsdale -
Blueberries mulched with sawdust
Photo: Berit Dinsdale
Read the Full Report
This project began in the spring of 2022 with an evaluation of drought and heat-related projects already in progress and the identification of prospective collaborators. The team then worked to recruit and interview 59 farmers and ranchers over the next seven months. Project participants spanned all regions, commodities, and operation sizes in Oregon. This process resulted in a generalized assessment of current drought and heat-related mitigation practices, obstacles, and resource needs. The results of this assessment are presented here.