Snowfall across Colorado during February boosted snowpack and brought relief to drought-stressed areas, according to the Mountain Region Field Office of the National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA. However, nearly all counties were still experiencing abnormally dry conditions or worse at month’s end.

Reporters in northeastern counties noted winter kill of wheat was a concern due to lack of good snow cover and moisture in areas. Livestock were reportedly doing well and pastures were in good shape, but more moisture is needed before spring.

In eastern counties, recovery from last year’s drought was aided by recent moisture. A Kiowa county reporter noted winter wheat condition was good in areas, but some fields did not achieve a good stand before dormancy.

In southwestern counties, big moisture-making storms made a dent in the worst drought conditions. A reporter in Montezuma county noted livestock death loss was above average due to wet and freezing conditions.

In the San Luis Valley, a reporter noted soil moisture conditions were an improvement from last year, but still below normal. Livestock condition was also noted as poorer than normal due to very tight feed supplies.

Southeastern counties also received beneficial wet snow during February, with soil moisture looking good prior to spring planting. 

Statewide, calving and lambing were well underway.

As of February 24, 2019, snowpack in Colorado was at 116 percent measured as percent of median snowfall.

Note: Weekly reports resume in mid-March for the 2019 season.