Roaring Fork Conservancy and local partners launch drought resiliency project
Farmers and ranchers in the Roaring Fork Valley are coping with the effects of prolonged drought. Roaring Fork Conservancy (RFC) recognizes the value and complexities of local agriculture. To this end, RFC is partnering with several producers, Lotic Hydrological consulting, and Pitkin County Open Space to explore opportunities of enhancing the resilience of ranching operations in the Roaring Fork Valley in times of water shortage. The project team is interested in identifying means for mitigating against the impacts of drought on productivity in mid- to high-elevation grass pastures and hay fields—the dominant agricultural land use in the Roaring Fork Valley. The study will work to identify field-scale treatments that can be used to minimize (or eliminate) reductions in crop yields and forage quality that are expected in times of limited water supply.
Weekly Snowpack and River Report
December 26, 2024 -
Summary:
As 2024 nears its close, snowpack in the Roaring Fork Watershed is slightly below average at 96% of normal for this time of year. Throughout the Colorado River Basin above Lake Powell snow water equivalent (SWE) is similarly tracking below average at 80% of normal. Despite the recent dry spell, a Christmas Day snowstorm did deliver a white Christmas to the Roaring Fork Watershed! As a result, all nine local SNOTEL sites are measuring modest SWE increases from a week ago (0.2-0.4 inches). This storm is hopefully just the beginning of several days of holiday snowfall, as several storms are forecasted for the next five days. Rivers and streams in the watershed are flowing similarly to a week ago and are 69-112% of normal. Happy New Year!
2024 Voters' Guide to Water Issues
Roaring Fork Conservancy is pleased to present yet another edition of the Voters’ Guide to Water Issues in the Roaring Fork Valley and Beyond.
RFC asked candidates in local, state, and federal races for their responses to two water related questions. This online edition presents a non-biased forum for candidates to express their qualifications and platforms on water issues affecting the Roaring Fork Watershed and the state of Colorado...
Need a Gift with a Lasting Impact?
Need a last minute gift with a lasting impact?
Make your gift here and download a card for your recipient
