The parched landscape of Wallowa County has led Governor Tina Kotek to sign Executive Order 24-29, declaring a state of emergency due to severe drought conditions. This declaration triggers a host of state responses aimed at mitigating the harsh impact on the community and its resources. “Water scarcity has become the new normal for our state,” Governor Kotek warned, addressing the pressing issue of the changing climate and its effect on Oregon’s water availability, as per a statement obtained by the Oregon Newsroom.