Statewide drought declared by Polis

Gov. Jared Polis has declared a statewide drought emergency, a move that carries particular significance for Gunnison County, where some of Colorado’s most important water resources are already showing signs of stress after a winter marked by record-low snowpack and unusually warm temperatures.

The declaration, issued June 4, activates Phase 3 of Colorado’s Drought Response Plan and allows state agencies to coordinate additional resources as drought conditions worsen across the state. State officials said all 64 Colorado counties are experiencing some level of drought.

For Gunnison County residents, the announcement underscores concerns that have been building for months. The county sits at the headwaters of the Gunnison River Basin and is home to Blue Mesa Reservoir, Colorado’s largest body of water and a critical resource for agriculture, recreation, hydropower generation and downstream water users.

A photograph distributed with statewide coverage of the declaration highlighted drought conditions at Blue Mesa Reservoir near Gunnison, emphasizing the basin’s role in Colorado’s water picture.

“Today, I am issuing a statewide drought emergency to support Coloradans, our economy, farmers and ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts,” Polis said in announcing the declaration, describing current conditions as among the most severe drought challenges in Colorado’s recorded history.

The governor’s action follows recommendations from the Colorado Drought Task Force and the Water Conditions Monitoring Committee, which have been tracking worsening conditions fueled by a winter that state officials described as the warmest on record and one that produced historically low snowpack levels.

In Gunnison County, low snowpack raises concerns well beyond reservoir levels. Mountain snow serves as the primary source of water for local ranches, streams, fisheries and recreation-based businesses that depend on healthy river flows throughout the summer.

The drought emergency could help unlock additional state assistance and improve coordination among agencies responsible for water management, agriculture and wildfire response. State officials have warned that dry conditions also increase the risk of a difficult wildfire season across Colorado.

The declaration comes as summer tourism begins across the Gunnison Valley, where fishing, boating, camping and other outdoor activities contribute significantly to the local economy. Water managers and recreation businesses will be closely watching reservoir levels and stream flows in the coming months.

While recent storms have brought some moisture to parts of Colorado, state officials say the precipitation has not been enough to erase the impacts of a dry winter and prolonged warm temperatures. Drought experts have cautioned that recovery will likely require sustained moisture over an extended period.

Under Phase 3 of the state drought plan, Colorado agencies will increase coordination and preparedness efforts while encouraging residents and businesses to conserve water. State facilities also are expected to reduce water use where possible.