Western Water

The Colorado River, vital for seven states, is over-allocated, with water rights exceeding its volume. NASA's Tom Painter studies snowmelt, which provides 80% of the river's water. Dust from the Southwest accelerates snowmelt by darkening snow, causing it to absorb more sunlight. Research shows dust causes snow to melt 3-4 weeks earlier, reducing river volume by 5% annually. This early melt affects plant growth and water usage. The dust is largely human-caused, mainly from grazing animals. Stabilizing soil could delay snowmelt and conserve river water.

What is the primary source of water for the Colorado River?

• Groundwater

• Lakes

• Snowmelt

• Rainfall

How does dust affect the melting of snow?

• It has no effect on snowmelt.

• It makes the snow reflect more sunlight.

• It causes the snow to melt slower.

• It darkens the snow, causing it to absorb more sunlight.

By how much does the river's volume decrease annually due to early snowmelt?

• 2%

• 15%

• 5%

• 10%

What is believed to be the primary human cause of dust on snow?

• Industrial pollution

• Grazing animals

• Deforestation

• Urban development

What potential solution is suggested to reduce water loss from the Colorado River?

• Increasing water rights

• Reducing snowmelt

• Stabilizing soil in fragile areas

• Building more dams