SCS Water Supply Forecasting Opportunities

SCS personnel have been surveying the mountain snowpack, collecting other hydrometeorological data, and providing water supply forecasts to users for nearly 50 years. Recently, the snow survey program has been restructured. Emphasis is being placed on updating forecast procedures and applying forecast information at the agricultural operating unit level. A special effort is being made to identify and categorize users according to needs. Services are being targeted to meet these needs on a local level. Training in automated access and utilization of forecasts is being given a high priority. A menu driven centralized forecasting system is being developed to provide direct user access. Coordination with the National Weather Service River Forecast Centers and other agencies is being accelerated. The current and projected water supply forecast program is a vital part of the overall SCS soil and water conservation mission.