CALIFORNIA - What experts called one of the most crucial measuring periods for California’s snowpack took place last week, and the results are promising for ag.

At 183% of the April long term average, snow depth at Phillips Station measured at 94.4 inches and water content at 46.1 inches.

Frank Gehrke, Chief of the California Cooperative Snow Surveys Program, shared that the 2017 snowpack ranks in the upper quarter of historic snowpacks, according to The Folsom Telegraph, and said it is expected to provide “great reservoir recovery.”

“This is an extremely good year from the snowpack standpoint,” said Gehrke. “The storm track shifted away from California during March but we still have a very substantial snowpack.”

Phillips Station combines with central Sierra average of 175% April's average–147% for northern Sierra and 164% for southern Sierra, the report said.

"On or about April 1, all of the snow courses within California are measured, so it's the most comprehensive snapshot of what's going on for the entire season," said Gehrke, noting the date's importance in the overall projection for the state’s year of water resources.

California’s drought status will be addressed once again this week; The Department of Water Resources is expected to announce in the coming days if conservation regulations will remain as we get into the hotter months.

As we reported previously, Southern California’s Solana Beach, Rancho Santa Fe, and Fairbanks Ranch were the last to see an official ‘end’ declared to the drought.

As we continue to receive word, AndNowUKnow will update this and other weather events influencing the produce industry.