Hi Susan,
Thank you for your question about how much water strawberries require.

“Strawberries need adequate water to thrive, either from irrigation or rainfall. Fruit is made up of mostly water, so sufficient irrigation during fruit production is essential for the best yields and fruit quality. Established strawberries typically require from 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week during the growing season, depending on plant vigor, stage of growth, soil type and weather. Whether you’re irrigating by hand or using sprinklers or drip systems, monitor your irrigation carefully to ensure the root zones of the plants receive enough water.

With each irrigation, wet the soil to a depth of 0.5 to 1 foot. The rooting area should be wet enough that the soil does not fully dry out between irrigation cycles. Sandy soils require more frequent and lighter water applications than heavier soils. Newly set plants do not have well-developed root systems, so plants can be easily stressed. Irrigate several times a week or as needed so that the root zone and soil are thoroughly wetted but standing water does not accumulate. You can dig down into the soil to check if the soil is wet — but not too wet — between irrigations and is wet down to 0.5 to 1 foot. Surface mulch can help conserve soil moisture. (See “Mulching.”)

Drip irrigation is ideal for strawberry production because it can reduce disease and weed problems and conserve water. Irrigate with a single line of drip irrigation per row with ½-gallon emitters spaced every 12 inches. You may also use a soaker hose, provided you monitor soil moisture to ensure the proper amount of water is being applied. Place the hose or drip line under any plastic mulch.”
Source: Growing Strawberries in Your Home Garden | OSU Extension Service (oregonstate.edu)

The OSU Deschutes County Extension website provides many helpful publications about gardening in Central Oregon. Following is a link to this website, which will direct you to gardening topics and plants that are specific for our geographic area and climate.
Central Oregon Garden Publications | OSU Extension Service (oregonstate.edu)

If you have additional questions, I recommend you contact the Plant Clinic at the OSU Deschutes County Extension in Redmond. You can call the phone number listed below or send your photos and question to <personal data hidden>

Summer Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9:00 to 5:00 pm, Friday 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Phone:<personal data hidden> x79630

We always welcome your home garden questions at the OSU Plant Clinic.