Gov. Tina Kotek on Tuesday declared drought emergencies in Coos and Wheeler counties, directing state agencies to provide assistance and resources to those regions.

Both counties have experienced moderate drought conditions since June, and Wheeler County has seen severe drought since mid-July, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor .

Some metrics indicate long-term drought conditions have persisted in Wheeler County over the past year, according to a statement from the governor’s office.

In her executive order, Kotek directed Oregon’s departments of agriculture, water resources and emergency management to aid both counties. The order, lasting through the end of the year, also directs the state Water Resources Department to seek information about the impacts of water availability on

See Full Page