Governor Polis Activates State Drought Task Force as Low Snow and Record Warmth Intensify Drought Conditions. “Colorado is experiencing the warmest year so far in our 131-year record, and one of the driest,”

Today, with record-breaking warm temperatures and low snowpack across Colorado, Governor Jared Polis has activated the state’s Drought Task Force and Phase 2 of Colorado’s Drought Response Plan. Acting on recommendations from the state’s Water Conditions Monitoring Committee and partner agencies, the Task Force will help the state better understand and elevate the local, regional, and sector-specific impacts of worsening drought conditions.

“Colorado is experiencing the warmest year so far in our 131-year record, and one of the driest,” said Governor Jared Polis. “Activating the Drought Task Force will help ensure we are protecting one of our most precious resources by closely tracking impacts, supporting communities, and coordinating better as we prepare for the year ahead.”

The Drought Task Force, last activated in 2020, brings together senior leadership from key state agencies, including the Colorado Department of Natural Resources, Colorado Department of Agriculture, Department of Local Affairs, and the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. The group assesses drought conditions statewide, elevates local impacts to state leadership, and can convene regional or sector-specific workgroups to gather information and share resources.