Colorado Airborne Snow Measurement Program enhances snowpack monitoring and forecasting

The Colorado Water Conservation Board convened the Water Conditions Monitoring Committee on May 22, 2025, to discuss the current state of water resources in the region, focusing on the critical role of mountain snowpack in streamflow and water availability. The meeting highlighted the complexities of monitoring snowpack and its implications for water management across various basins in Colorado.

The committee began by emphasizing the importance of the mountain snowpack as a primary reservoir for the state, noting that its distribution and evolution throughout the season are intricate and variable. The National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) SNOTEL network was identified as a key tool for monitoring snowpack, providing valuable data on snow water equivalent (SWE) across different river basins. However, limitations in the network's coverage necessitate additional methods to capture snowpack changes in areas not monitored by SNOTEL.

To address these gaps, the committee discussed the integration of the Airborne Snow Observations (ASO) program, which utilizes airborne surveys to provide comprehensive measurements of snowpack across watersheds. This program, which has evolved since its inception as a NASA initiative in 2013, aims to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of snowpack data, thereby improving hydrologic forecasts and water management decisions.

The meeting included a detailed analysis of snowpack conditions from the past two years, particularly in the East River basin. Data indicated significant variations in snowpack levels between 2023 and 2024, with a notable decrease in SWE in many areas. The committee reviewed maps illustrating these differences, highlighting the importance of continuous monitoring to inform water rights administration and resource allocation.

The committee also celebrated the recent passage of House Bill 1115, which establishes a new Water Supply Measurement and Forecasting program within the CWCB, further solidifying the ASO program's role in state water management. This legislative support reflects a collaborative effort among over a hundred stakeholders from Colorado's water community to enhance the state's capacity for snowpack measurement and forecasting.

As the meeting progressed, the committee reviewed current snowpack conditions across various basins, including the Blue River, Upper South Platte, and Rio Grande. Data from recent ASO flights revealed varying snowpack levels, with some areas showing increased SWE compared to previous years, while others experienced declines. The committee noted that these measurements are crucial for understanding runoff patterns and managing water resources effectively.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the significance of integrating advanced monitoring techniques like ASO with traditional methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of Colorado's snowpack and water resources. The committee plans to continue its efforts in refining forecasting models and enhancing collaboration among stakeholders to ensure sustainable water management in the state.