MALIN, Ore. (AP) — On a visit to the drought-stricken Klamath Basin, Gov. Ted Kulongoski said the Oregon National Guard can provide water to Malin (muh-LIN) residents if their domestic wells go dry.
Despite recent rain, the Basin is facing its worst drought in years. Upper Klamath Lake is at historic lows, and precipitation and inflow to the lake are below normal levels.
A similar situation occurred in 2001 when there was heavy groundwater use after water from the lake was cut off to irrigators. That year, there was no support from the state to residents who had wells go dry.
Kulongoski visited the area Thursday and offered his assurance that the Guard will help if needed.
