Drought may threaten 2015 season of Idaho and Oregon onions

The water situation continues to be dire in onion growing regions of Idaho and Oregon. While the 2014 season saw a decrease in water availability, the 2015 season is officially in a drought. Although the regions are in a ‘drought’, there doesn’t seem to be much concern. The last few days have even brought spring rains which were greatly needed.

The fact that all growers have ground water wells attributes to the current lack of concern regarding the drought and lack of surface water from the Boise River system and Malhuer drainage area. Last season, even though surface water was restricted, the wells were adequate to counteract the water shortfall. If growers do need to cut water, it will be to lower value crops like alfalfa.

In the last five years the adoption of a drip irrigation system has increased each year. This irrigation technique reduces overall water consumption while resulting in increased productivity. Therefore, if fields become water restricted the increase in drip irrigation is circumventing any loss in productivity overall.

Onion seed sales within the Idaho and Oregon region are similar to that of 2014 which will generate crop acreage similar to 2014. Growers are hopeful that spring will continue to bring rain to help with water usage. However, the unusually warm winter has led growers to become concerned over how hot the summer will be. Too much sustained heat will reduce yields no matter how much water is present.