Snowpack running close to average

Snowpack readings at the end of February declined slightly across Montana for the second month in a row, the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service reported, bringing statewide snowpack levels to 93 percent of normal and 85 percent of last year.

According to snow survey data, snowfall was consistent during February, tracking close to normal. Some areas received a modest increase in snow-water equivalent, but most saw a slight decrease.

“Near normal snowpack is a good sign this time of year because at this point we are typically 80 percent complete with the normal snow accumulation season,” NRCS water supply specialist Brian Domonkos said.

Snowpack in the Flathead River basin was 94 percent of median and 87 percent of last year. February saw a 3 percent drop.

Given the current snowpack in place and near normal forecasted future precipitation and temperatures, NRCS predicted streamflows to be near to slightly below average this runoff season.

Flathead River basin streamflow forecasts for April 1 through July 31 were 99 percent of average and 99 percent of last year’s average forecast.

For detailed snowpack information, visit online at www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/ftpref/data/snow/basin_reports/montana/wy2013/basnmt3.txt

For detailed basin streamflow forecast information, visit online at ftp://ftp.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/support/water/provisional_forecasts/montana/mt.txt.