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.

May 22, 2025 - 

Summary: 

Rivers across the Roaring Fork Watershed are flowing well below average for this time of year (27-42% of normal) due to recent cool and cloudy days which slowed snowmelt. This year’s runoff has been particularly poor due to below average snowpack and unseasonably warm spring temperatures. As we head into summer, the watershed is already experiencing moderate and severe drought (2 and 3 of 5 levels of intensity) according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. Now is the time to start thinking about water conservation. For those working on their lawns or gardens this holiday weekend, please choose native, drought tolerant plants. More indoor and outdoor water saving tips can be found at www.roaringfork.org/drought.

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