Members of the Colorado Drought Task Force want Gov. Jared Polis to issue an emergency proclamation to unlock more help, potentially from state coffers, in face of worrisome drought conditions.  After a historically bad winter that ended a month early, Colorado is already feeling the impacts — whether that’s financial strain, tough business decisions or an overstressed environment. As part of the state’s response, the task force recommended Monday moving into the highest level, phase three, of the state’s drought response plan. The move could allow the state to tap more resources or seek a presidential declaration. … The officials gathered for their third meeting in Winter Park to hear updates about drought conditions and impacts on fisheries, water providers and wildfire risk. 

Other drought news around the West:

• The Colorado Sun (Denver): After a grim Colorado ski season, drought is crippling rafting season
• NBC News: The fish will die regardless: With some Western reservoirs set to run dry, officials lift fishing limits
• FOX13 (Salt Lake City): Lack of snowmelt leaves Central Utah farms and ranches scrambling
• KDRV (Medford, Ore.): Klamath Basin facing water shortage