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Utah’s water outlook: Snowpack and reservoir levels hold steady

Despite a slow start, hopes remain for a normal water year

By Staff | Dec 25, 2024

“We’ll be happy if we can see near-normal precipitation across the state,” Candice Hasenyager, director of the Division of Water Resources, said. “But we are off to a slow start for December”

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah’s winter snowpack is developing in a “stair-step” pattern, with bursts of storm-driven increases followed by periods of little accumulation. Currently, the state’s snowpack sits at 81% of normal, and officials remain cautiously optimistic for near-normal levels by spring.

Utah’s snowpack, which typically peaks in April, plays a critical role in the state’s water supply. Candice Hasenyager, director of the Division of Water Resources, acknowledged the slower-than-expected start to December but expressed hope for improvement.

“We’ll be happy if we can see near-normal precipitation across the state,” Hasenyager said. “But we are off to a slow start for December.”

While some areas lag behind, others are thriving. According to the Natural Resources Conservation Service’s December Report, the Uinta Basin is leading the state at 164% of normal snowfall. Meanwhile, the St. George area remains abnormally dry, with just 46% of normal precipitation since October.

Soil moisture levels, though still below normal, have shown slight improvements, pulling most regions out of the critically low 10th percentile.

Reservoirs also paint a promising picture. Statewide, reservoirs are 75% full–slightly lower than last year at this time but well above the drought-driven lows of 2021-2022.

“Reservoirs have been crucial in buffering us from recent droughts,” Hasenyager said. “Promising storage levels now reflect favorable water years and ongoing conservation efforts, which are key to ensuring water security amid climate uncertainties.”

Since about 95% of Utah’s water supply comes from snowpack, these reservoirs are vital for preserving water during dry months and drought years. To bolster conservation efforts, the Department of Natural Resources promotes programs like the Agricultural Water Optimization Program for farmers and SlowtheFlow.org for residents.

These initiatives educate Utahns on water-saving practices, ensuring the state becomes more drought-resilient. Residents looking for tips on indoor water conservation can visit slowtheflow.org/indoor-tips.