There is no simple, single definition of drought. In any region, there are periods of below-normal precipitation. These dry periods become a drought when demand for water exceeds supply. In this sense, we may be in a permanent drought throughout the Western United States. Wet and dry extremes are a natural part of California's climate. Since 1900, the state has experienced eight multiyear dry periods. But we need a lot of rain to make up for last year's shortfall. Precipitation throughout California in 2007 was only 65% of normal. It was between 15% and 30% of normal in Southern California. The Sierra snowpack was a meager 25% of normal. But several new factors are making it harder for water managers and planners to say if we're in -- or out -- of a drought. One of the most important is climate change caused by global warming. IThe fact of the matter is that droughts will come and go. Managing our water system from drought to drought, however, does little to reduce our vulnerability to fluctuations in rainfall. California can do a lot more. First, we must find new sources of water. Second, we must reduce our demand for water.

To view the full article, visit the LA Times. For a copy of the original article contact the WIP at (970) 247-1302 or stop by the office at 841 East Second Avenue in Durango.