Colorado’s weather modification program is seeing an increased interest in cloud seeding technology after the record-low snowpack this past winter. … The ability of cloud seeding to add to Colorado’s snowpack was limited this year compared to past years due in large part to the lack of suitable storms that rolled through the state, [Weather Modification Program Manager Andrew] Rickert said. He noted, however, that the technology still likely added small amounts of extra precipitation to the storms it did seed. In Colorado, Rickert said all seven wintertime cloud seeding programs use ground-based generator systems and operate from Nov. 1 to April 15, with contractors able to get an extension to the end of April if conditions allow.

Other snow drought news:

• KRQE: Low snowpack and record early snowmelt as New Mexico enters third year of extreme drought
• KSEE/KGPE (Fresno, Calif.): Before and after images of Sierra Nevada show state’s record-low snowpack
• Daily Dispatch (Western Fire Chiefs Association): Record-low snowpack may lead to more severe wildfire season in Utah
• Oregon State University: News release: Warmer winters and snow drought may threaten western U.S. water by speeding flows, study finds