In the wake of experiencing back-to-back drought years for the first time in three decades, stakeholders within the Yakima Valley's agricultural sector have been navigating through the challenges posed by reduced water allocations. According to the Washington State Department of Ecology, growers are facing estimated losses ranging from 18.1% to 30.4% during prorated water years, with drought occurrences on the rise.
The Yakima Basin Joint Board, a coalition comprising seven irrigation districts and the City of Yakima, has been at the forefront of addressing these water-related challenges through the Yakima Basin Integrated Plan. This initiative aims at mediating water disputes among competing interests. A recent tour organized by the board showcased various agricultural and water management sites, including Valicoff Fruit Company's packing plant in Wapato, the Sunnyside Diversion Dam, the Roza Re-Regulation Reservoir, and CLS Farms near Moxee, highlighting the region's agricultural productivity and the collaborative efforts towards water conservation.
At Valicoff Fruit Company, advanced technology is employed to sort and pack apples, some destined for international markets. The company, which transitioned from vegetable to fruit production in 1977, is a testament to the Yakima Basin's agricultural output. The ongoing drought has prompted concerns over water supply, impacting fruit size and necessitating strategic decisions on crop management. The Valicoff family emphasizes the collective industry effort in water conservation, underscoring the importance of technology and hard work in agricultural production.
The Sunnyside Valley Dam has been the focus of a fish passage improvement project to address the diversion of migrating fish into irrigation canals. Completed in 2021, the project is a result of collaborative efforts aimed at ensuring the survival of salmon and steelhead populations.
The Roza Irrigation District's re-regulation reservoir, operational since 2017, plays a crucial role in water conservation. By storing water during periods of low demand, the reservoir ensures consistent water delivery, supporting both agricultural needs and environmental conservation.
CLS Farms, a fifth-generation hop-growing operation, has adapted to the challenges posed by the drought and pest pressures. Despite these hurdles, the farm has reported average to above-average yields, highlighting the resilience of the agricultural community in the Yakima Valley.
The collective response to drought conditions in the Yakima Valley showcases the importance of innovation, collaboration, and strategic resource management in sustaining agricultural productivity and environmental conservation.
Source: Washington State Standard