Drought Basics

Drought is a natural part of climate patterns across the world, yet its impacts can be far-reaching and severe, affecting ecosystems, agriculture, water supply, and entire communities. While many may think of drought simply as a lack of rain, it is a complex phenomenon that extends beyond dry weather.

What is a drought?

At its core, drought is a prolonged period of abnormally dry conditions that result in water shortages. However, defining drought is not always straightforward. It varies by region, climate, and the needs of local ecosystems and communities.

In the Upper Gunnison River Basin, drought conditions can impact everything from agricultural productivity to municipal water supplies and natural habitats.

Drought is generally categorized into four types:

• Meteorological Drought occurs when there is an extended period of below-average precipitation. What qualifies as a “dry spell” varies by region.
• Agricultural Drought happens when there is insufficient moisture in the soil to support crops and other agricultural needs.
• Hydrological Drought is characterized by reduced water levels in rivers, streams, reservoirs, and aquifers. This type of drought often becomes evident after a period of meteorological drought.
• Socioeconomic Drought occurs when water shortages begin to impact people, such as through restrictions on water use, increased costs, and losses in agriculture-dependent industries.

What causes drought?

Drought can be caused by a variety of factors, often in combination. Natural climate variability, like El Niño or La Niña, can shift weather patterns and contribute to extended dry periods. Long-term climate change is also influencing drought frequency and severity, as warmer temperatures can increase evaporation rates and reduce snowpack, a crucial water source for the Upper Gunnison River Basin.

Human activities can further exacerbate drought conditions. Excessive water use can strain available water resources, leading to greater vulnerability during dry periods.

How does drought affect our community?

In the Upper Gunnison River Basin, drought can have profound consequences. In the agricultural space, reduced soil moisture and limited irrigation supplies can threaten crops and livestock. Municipalities may face difficult decisions about water restrictions, while outdoor recreation, a key part of our local economy, can suffer from decreased water levels in rivers and reservoirs. The environment also feels the strain—wildlife habitats may shrink, and aquatic ecosystems can face increased stress.

Building resilience

While drought is a challenge, our community can take steps to build resilience. Through the Upper Gunnison Drought Plan, stakeholders across agriculture, industry, environmental organizations, and municipalities are working together to develop strategies that mitigate the impacts of drought. These efforts include water conservation initiatives, efficient irrigation practices, drought monitoring, and community education.

Understanding the basics of drought is an essential step in supporting these efforts. By staying informed and participating in local water management practices, we can help protect our community and resources against the challenges of drought.

For more information and to stay updated on current drought conditions in the Upper Gunnison River Basin, sign up for the Upper Gunnison Drought Plan newsletter.