News Release Archive

Wyoming Area Snowmelt Runoff Forecast - North Platte Basin

Media Contact: John H. Lawson, (307) 261-5671, jlawson@gp.usbr.gov
Michael Odle, modle@gp.usbr.gov

For Release: February 06, 2009

The Wyoming Area Office of the Bureau of Reclamation in Mills, Wyo., has prepared snowmelt runoff forecasts for the North Platte River Basin, according to John H. Lawson, Wyoming Area Manager. The February 1 forecast of the spring snowmelt runoff for the North Platte Basin is slightly below average.

Total April through July runoff in the North Platte Basin above Glendo Dam is expected to be 875,000 acre feet (AF) or 99% of the 30 year average of 886,400 AF. Approximately 750,000 AF (107% of average) of the runoff is expected to enter Seminoe Reservoir with an additional 40,000 AF (66% of average) being provided to Pathfinder Reservoir from the Sweetwater River, and the balance of 85,000 AF (70% of average) coming from the basin between Pathfinder Reservoir and Glendo Reservoir.

The water in storage for delivery to North Platte Project contractors is 717,702 AF or 134% of average. Since the February 1 forecast is below average, Reclamation continues to encourage water conservation in planning for the upcoming season.

Reclamation will update the inflow forecasts again in March, April, and May.

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Relevant Link:

Wyoming Area Office Home Page