February record-setting precipitation filling state reservoirs, Great Salt Lake

Salt Lake City, Utah — The state’s reservoirs are filling up, which is good news for Utah’s snowpack since it means that the Great Salt Lake, which has increased by about two feet since October, will have more water available.

Alta, which has always led the way in snowfall, experienced the wettest February on record in February, which will help keep the ground moist and fill streams as spring approaches.

“Alta’s record-breaking February reminds us how much can change in a month,” said Candice Hasenyager, Director of the Division of Water Resources.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service reports that Utah’s snow water equivalent for February was 157% of what it usually receives.

The majority of Utah’s water comes from spring runoff, and experts say the outlook for this season looks excellent because March, April, and May are typically the wettest months in the state. This is because more water can enter streams and rivers as the land becomes saturated.

More than half of the streams in the state are currently flowing at normal or above-average rates.
The basin is currently at 123 percent of normal, with precipitation in February being 183 percent of normal, demonstrating the success of the actions implemented to preserve the Great Salt Lake.
Reservoir levels are currently 83 percent full across the state, 22 percent above average, and a stark contrast to the roughly half-full level at the end of last year.

“Our reservoirs are our water savings account,” Hasenyager said.

“This critical infrastructure provides us with the water security we have today. Continued studies and investments in water infrastructure will be needed for Utah’s future generations.”

However, experts caution that maintaining attention to water management and conservation is essential.

Utah residents are urged to visit the Slow the Flow website to discover strategies and rewards for conserving water.