Klamath Refuges’ Habitat Conditions Somewhat Improved, But Uncertainty Remains

Latest reports from the Klamath Basin show better wetland habitat conditions from last year, but without additional water deliveries conditions could soon deteriorate. 

Tule Lake wetlands 1A and 1B are holding water but both are currently losing elevation daily.  The TID irrigation season runs through mid-November so there is still uncertainty about any inflows at that time. This time of year is when the refuges typically begin seeing avian botulism which could factor into fall hunt season planning. 

Water outlook at Lower Klamath NWR is more uncertain. About 6,000 acres were flooded (20% of the normal spring habitat) based on wetlands that should be functioning as perennial wetlands.  This was based on cross seasonal waterbird benefits but also the ecosystem services/benefits those wetlands provide. Unit 2 will be maintained through the summer. CWA is hopeful that the voluntary water transfer from the Wood River Valley that we recently brokered for Lower Klamath NWR will provide some additional flows into the refuge in August, but that remains unclear at this time.

Until there is more certainty about what flooded habitat will look like this fall, the refuge has not announced a pre-hunt season meeting.

On a related note, CWA and some of our waterfowl partners worked with the CA State Legislature to include $25 million in funding to improve habitat conditions on refuges, including Lower Klamath NWR, in a climate bond measure that will appear on the November statewide ballot.  Bill Text - SB-867 Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024. (ca.gov)  If passed by the voters, it could help purchase additional water deliveries for Lower Klamath NWR.