Salem City Council to consider emergency declaration over 2026 water shortage risk

Salem City Council plans to declare a state of emergency due to a potential water shortage in 2026 linked to the Detroit Lake reservoir's scheduled drawdown. This drawdown, expected to begin in Fall 2026, may lead to significant sediment influx into the North Santiam River, impacting water quality for Salem, Turner, and Slayton. The emergency declaration would allow for expedited spending on water system improvements and facilitate agreements for alternative water supplies, such as groundwater wells and a connection with the City of Keizer. A city spokesperson stated that the current slow sand filtration method may not adequately handle the increased sediment levels, forcing the city to halt river water use for an extended period. To mitigate the expected demand, the city is developing initiatives, including constructing additional groundwater wells on Geren Island.

The projects are projected to be completed by August 2026, ahead of the drawdown, under an expedited procurement schedule. The U. S. Corps of Army Engineers postponed the drawdown by a year to gather public input and complete environmental assessments. The City Council will vote on the emergency declaration during its meeting at 6 p.

m. on Monday.