The Snowpack Report Is In

If you were hoping this winter's moisture would break Montana's drought streak, I have got some disappointing news. We are heading into our fourth consecutive summer of drought conditions.

The Numbers Don't Lie

Statewide snowpack sits at just 66% of normal for this time of year. Here is how the local basins stack up:

Upper Clark Fork (Missoula area): 87% of normal (best in the state)

Bitterroot Basin: 75% of normal

Lower Clark Fork (below Missoula): 64% of normal

While April brought average precipitation to Missoula, most of it fell as rain, not snow. Rain helps in the moment, but it does not create the summer water reserve that mountain snowpack provides.

What This Means for You

Water Restrictions: Possible lawn watering limits later this summer as water managers try to stretch supplies.

Fire Danger: Higher wildfire risk as the season progresses. Expect fire restrictions in the backcountry earlier than usual.

River Recreation: Lower flows could affect floating and fishing conditions on local rivers. The Blackfoot and Bitterroot may run lower and warmer than normal.

Agriculture: Local farmers and ranchers are already planning for reduced water availability. Expect higher produce prices if irrigation shortages hit.

The Silver Lining

The upper Clark Fork basin is doing better than most of the state at 87% of normal. The Mission Mountains are holding decent snow north of town. But overall, we are looking at another year of careful water management across Missoula County.

Time to fix those leaky faucets and think about xeriscaping that front yard.