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Washington, D.C. -- Today Congressman David Wu called upon Governor Ted Kulongoski to declare a statewide drought emergency in the State of Oregon.
"All Oregonians are concerned about the impact of a drought to both livelihoods and safety," said Congressman David Wu. "Doing so will help us obtain federal drought assistance as needed in a more timely manner which can help families from losing their livelihoods," said Wu.
To follow is the full text of the letter:
April 14, 2005
Governor Ted Kulongoski
160 State Capitol
900 Court Street
Salem, Oregon 97301-4047
Dear Governor Kulongoski,
I am writing to encourage you to declare a statewide drought emergency in the State of Oregon.
I know we are both concerned that Oregon is experiencing the driest year since the 1977 drought. The snow pack is less than fifty percent of normal in most of the state, and the forecasted stream flow is approximately fifty percent of normal. I am concerned about public water shortages in cities, water districts, and farms. In addition to water shortages, our communities are worried about wildlife and more specifically fish and aquatic life.
Although the spring is bringing more rain, the damage has already been done with the dry fall and winter seasons. A particular concern is the probability of extensive forest fires. With our previous dry seasons, we are more at risk for severe forest fires this summer. Even more concerning is our lack of fire fighting force given the deployment of National Guard troops abroad. These factors indicate the potential need for statewide federal aid, which will be more difficult to solicit without a statewide drought declaration.
It is my understanding that you have declared the following counties to be in drought emergencies: Klamath, Baker, Crook, Gilliam, Hood River, Sherman, Umatilla, and Morrow. Although I do believe that declaring the hardest hit counties is important, this level of drought has far reaching effects on the State of Oregon. I have spoken to many constituencies, including the farming community, Native American tribes, and local government officials that have asked for my assistance in preparing to secure funds for drought relief. These groups have informed me of the associated costs of a drought and how it could be debilitating to their livelihoods.
I encourage you to declare a state of drought emergency for the State of Oregon. With a statewide declaration, I can better assist you with federal drought assistance. I believe this important step will help protect our communities in the late summer months. If you have any further questions, please contact Mary Cunningham of my staff at (202) 225-0855. Thank you again for your consideration, and I hope that we can continue to work together on this issue.
With warm regards,
David Wu
Member of Congress
CC: The Oregon State Drought Council |
