The Wyoming Area Office of the Bureau of Reclamation in Mills, Wyoming, has reviewed the predicted water supply for the North Platte River Basin, according to John H. Lawson, Wyoming Area Manager. The predicted water supply which was based on the May 1, forecast of the spring snowmelt runoff will be less than anticipated.
The total expected April through July runoff in the North Platte Basin above Glendo Dam which was expected to be 340,000 acre feet (AF) or 37% of the 30 year average of 926,500 AF is now reduced to approximately 287,000 AF (31% of average). The reduction in the predicted inflow is based on May runoff which was much lower than expected.
The total forecasted irrigation supply for the North Platte Project water users was 622,000 AF based on the May 1, forecast of snowmelt runoff. Because of the reduction in the expected April through July runoff the total irrigation supply for the North Platte Project water users is now forecasted to be 554,000 AF. The Bureau of Reclamation is advising North Platte Project water users that an allocation of the water supply for irrigation is expected.
Reclamation is the largest wholesale water supplier and the second largest producer of hydroelectric power in the United States, with operations and facilities in the 17 Western States. Its facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation, and fish and wildlife benefits.
Source: Bureau of Reclamation
