The Colorado Water Conservation Board's Water Conditions Monitoring Committee met on May 22, 2025, to discuss the current state of snowpack and water conditions across various basins in the state. A significant focus was placed on the Upper Rio Grande Basin, where recent weather patterns have resulted in concerning snowpack levels.

During the meeting, officials highlighted that the snowpack in the Upper Rio Grande Basin peaked below the tenth percentile this year. Specific sites, such as Mendo Pass and the Upper San Juan Snowtail, were examined to illustrate the snowpack situation. Mendo Pass, located near Great Sand Dunes National Park, experienced a transient snowpack that did not accumulate significantly, reaching less than 50% of the typical peak. Additionally, the snow melted earlier than usual, indicating a troubling trend for water resources.

The Upper San Juan Snowtail also reported low snowpack levels, close to historical minimums, although it did maintain a seasonal snowpack. In contrast, Middle Creek showed slightly better conditions, with snowpack levels just above 50% of the median, yet still falling within the tenth percentile range.

The committee also addressed the Arkansas River Basin, which similarly reported snowpack levels averaging in the tenth percentile. These findings raise concerns about water availability for the upcoming seasons, as low snowpack can lead to reduced water supply for agriculture, ecosystems, and communities.

The meeting underscored the importance of ongoing monitoring and management strategies to address the challenges posed by these low snowpack conditions. As the state prepares for potential water shortages, the discussions emphasized the need for proactive measures to ensure sustainable water resources in Colorado.