Snowpack and streamflow increases throughout Montana

February dealt above average snow for the second consecutive month while increasing snowpack in all major basins according to snowpack data from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

The Flathead River basin is currently at 93 percent of average compared to last year’s 124 percent. Typically on March 1 nearly 80 percent of the average seasonal snowpack has accumulated, meaning one fifth of the snowfall season remains.

February brought improvements to the snowpack in southwest Montana, which saw below average January snowfall.

“Significant improvements were made, particularly in the Bridger Mountain Range, where snowpack nearly doubled over the course of the month affecting totals in the Gallatin and Shields River Basins” said Brian Domonkos, NRCS water supply specialist.

The Lower Clark Fork River Basin was the only watershed to experience below average February snowfall.

Both the Missouri Headwaters and the Milk River Basins are considerably below average this year. The Lower Yellowstone is well above average and even above last year, by as much as 25 percent, in the Tongue River Basin. As was the case in 2011, March and April can present above average snowfall and could add to snowpack totals in below average areas, while increasing snowpack in the Lower Yellowstone as well.

“Conditions are quite variable this year across our area, and still warrant a watchful eye over the coming months, whether above or below average,” Domonkos said.

The Flathead River basin streamflow is projected for 91 percent of average for April 1 through July 31. This forecast assumes near normal moisture and runoff conditions February through July.

Streamflow prospects across the state have increased five percent since last month, a direct reflection of the five percent increase in snowpack.

Most streamflow forecasts improved slightly since last month, with the greatest gains being made in the Yellowstone River Basin. The Jefferson River Basin currently shows the lowest seasonal volume outlook below 80 percent.

For a detailed basin streamflow forecast information go to ftp://ftp.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov.