The USDA reports that Colorado’s snowpack as of March 29 is 90 percent of median.  The agency’s reporting is based on statewide data.

Snowpack is an important consideration for water managers.  When the snow melts, it feeds rivers, streams and reservoirs.

Craig Press reports that Erin Light, engineer for the Colorado Division of Water Resources, says that so far, 2002 is tracking in line with other dry years over the last two decades.

Snow accumulating on the western slope of Colorado’s Rockies feeds the Colorado River.  This in turn feeds Lake Powell and Lake Mead.  Earlier this month, Lake Powell had dropped to a historic low, raising hydropower concerns.  If shortages continue, the Bureau of Reclamation will consider additional water releases from the upstream units of the Colorado River Storage Project later this year.