Utah grapples with unprecedented water conditions in the year of the ‘no-pack’
Utah cities, ski resorts, farmers and scientists tracking and preparing for the fallout of this year’s lowest-ever snowpack and winter drought are already feeling the effects. … Hosted by the nonprofit Great Salt Lake Alliance, panelists discussed the wide-ranging implications for Utah’s economy and environment, and the realities of a future with less water. … The Monday event followed an announcement from state water managers last week of a “bleak outlook” for the next few months. … Also at risk: the groundwater supply and several springs that are already running low, said Bethany Neilson, director of the Utah Water Research Laboratory at Utah State University in Logan.
Other snow drought news around the West:
- Denver Gazette (Colo.): Will Colorado’s wildflowers show up this year? Here’s how drought and low snowpack may impact the show
- Sierra Sun (Truckee, Calif.): Shedding winter’s colors: What could early spring conditions mean for wildlife in Tahoe
- National Integrated Drought Information System (NOAA): News release: A warm, dry March led to snow melt and drought expansion. Heat and fire potential are concerns for summer.
