Reclamation announces initial 2026 water supply allocations for the Klamath Project

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - The Bureau of Reclamation announced the initial 2026 Klamath Project water supply allocations that include 221,000 acre-feet from Upper Klamath Lake, 35,000 acre-feet from Gerber Reservoir, and 35,000 acre-feet from Clear Lake Reservoir. Reclamation is also making $19.1 million in drought resiliency funding available to be administered through the Klamath Project Drought Response Agency. The allocation reflects ongoing efforts to maximize available supplies in a year shaped by warm storms, limited snowpack, and constrained spring inflows.

"Even in a year with unpredictable water conditions, Reclamation's priority remains the same: deliver as much water as possible to the Klamath Project," said Acting Commissioner Scott Cameron. "We are working closely with our partners to make sure every available acre-foot truly supports producers and the communities that depend on Klamath Basin agriculture."

Klamath Project allocations are based on estimated water availability and include current reservoir storage, precipitation, snowpack, and operating criteria. The Project delivers water to approximately 230,000 acres in southern Oregon and northern California, including two national wildlife refuges. The initial allocation of 221,000 acre-feet available for lands served by Upper Klamath Lake is about 63 percent of full supply. The 35,000 acre-feet from Gerber and Clear Lake reservoirs is considered a full supply.

"We understand the strain limited supplies place on producers, communities and businesses across the Basin," saidActing Regional Director Adam Nickels. "Along with tracking hydrologic conditions and adjusting operations to improve reliability, Reclamation will ensure drought relief funds are administered efficiently to mitigate the impacts of this year's allocation."

In partnership with the Klamath Project Drought Response Agency, Reclamation provides funding for administration of specifically authorized drought resiliency programs targeted for project contractors who receive a reduced water allocation.

For more information about today's announcement or future updates on hydrologic conditions and Project operations visit https://www.usbr.gov/mp/kbao.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits.