The Grand County Drought Preparedness Committee formally designated Stage 3 “Exceptional Drought” conditions across Grand County, analyzing data on precipitation, temperatures and snowpack.

According to a recent press release from the committee, extreme to exceptional drought now covers 99% of the county. March temperatures have run 20 to 25 degrees above historical averages, while precipitation has dropped to a 41-year low.

Snowpack levels are also well below normal, the release stated. As of March 30, the Colorado River basin’s snow water equivalent measured just 27% of the median and peaked nearly a month earlier than usual, signaling an accelerated and reduced runoff season.

In response, the committee urged restrictions on managing declining supplies in rivers, streams and reservoirs. Officials urged residents to voluntarily reduce water use both indoors and outdoors.

Recommendations for water use include the following:

• Limiting planting to drought-tolerant and native vegetation
• Limiting outdoor watering until mid-May
• Limiting hand watering of shrubs and bushes as needed
• Following local water provider restrictions
• Fixing leaky faucets, toilets and showerheads promptly
• Minimizing personal use

While the measures are currently voluntary, the release emphasized that community cooperation will be critical to protecting water supplies as dry conditions persist.

More information and conservation tips are available through Grand County’s drought resources website.