Water users should have plenty this summer

Widespread cold temperatures in the upper valley in February led to precipitation totals of over 200% of normal, according to the Idaho Water Supply Outlook released Friday.

Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Water Supply Specialist Ron Abromovich said the combined water year precipitation above American Falls jumped from 83% of average on February 1 to 112% on March 1.

In some areas, it was the snowiest February on record.

As a result, all regional reservoirs are at above-normal levels for the time of year, with combined storage totaling 130% of average. Reservoir levels range from 105% of normal at Henry’s Lake to 155% at Jackson Lake. Henry’s Lake and American Falls are nearing capacity.

NRCS is projecting streamflow will remain near or slightly above normal through July. Low elevation snowpack will play a significant role in early season runoff. Water supplies should be adequate for all water users who rely on snow and runoff from the region.

You can find all the specifics here.