Mesa’s Low Snow Levels Wreaking Havoc

Lack of snow on The Grand Mesa is causing big problems.

The watershed on The Mesa is currently at 24% of its normal snow level. Some parts have as little as 4 inches of snow on the ground. The lack of snow has forced Powderhorn to a shorter operating schedule, the cancellation of next weekends Grand Mesa Summit Challenge, and most importantly could mean water shortages in the Grand Valley.

When you turn on a faucet or take a drink from a downtown water fountain you're drinking water that comes from snowmelt. That water servers everyone in the Grand Valley. Most people don't realize that it takes 18 inches of snow to make 4 inches of water. Right now, the Grand Mesa snow levels are the lowest they've been in years.

The Grand Mesa Summit Challenge dogsled race has been canceled because of the lack of snow. According to their event coordinator, they need 12 plus more inches to pull off a safe race.

Powderhorn Mountain Resort has temporarily reduced their number of operating days. The resort is closed Mondays through Wednesdays until more snow allows for the opening of additional terrain.

If there's not more snow soon, cutbacks in water usage may hit us all. Does anyone know a quality snow dance?

Credit: KKCO11News