With the phenomenal month of April now behind us the current pattern continues to bolster total precipitation averages in northeastern Nevada. Range conditions have improved dramatically as a result of some three weeks of consistent rain and snow events throughout all elevational regimes. April precipitation accumulation averages ranged from 148% to 218% for the month within the six northeastern basin. Total water year averages increased some 10% to 20% overall but remain below the May1 average with the Lower Humboldt presently at 77% and the highest average indicator, the Upper Humboldt, at 92%.

     Snowpack conditions have somewhat stabilized at upper elevation above 8,000', particularly within the Ruby Mountain/East Humboldt ranges where significant increases have actually enhanced the snow water equivalent. Stream flows remain below average for the period as a result of a relatively dry winter and the substantial snow water deficit going into northeastern Nevada's peak water bank window on April 1. We anticipate stream flows to remain below average throughout all basins but if the current precipitation trend continues, the late June & early July harvests certainly will not be totally run-off dependant. Upper elevation basins within the Ruby Mountain and East Humboldt front support significant water supplies which could provide mid to late season run-off. The duration and intensity of this run-off will be influenced primarily by temperature regimes and potential rain-on-snow events. Soil moisture is at maximum levels which will catalyze optimum rangeland production. As with run-off, the plant production response window is relative to temperature transition. This is probably the most significant factor in comparison to April 1 when soil moisture levels mocked June & July conditions.

      Projected run-off ranges from 40% of average on the Lower Humboldt to an estimated 64% within the Upper Humboldt Basin. Select watersheds within the Ruby Mountain/East Humboldt front may yield greater volume as a result of the late season build-up combined with a moderate or slow melt-down.