I look forward to spring and summer every year. When those birds start singing, water starts flowing, and crops are planted, I am happy. This year I find myself with another emotion that accompanies that eagerness though and it's worry. I know I'm not alone in this. This water year will be difficult. As I talk to producers on both the east and west side of the divide, a common concern is water and the lack thereof. Farmers are worried about whether their perennial crop will make it through to next year, farmers everywhere are anxious about harvest, and water delivery systems are wondering how long water will last in the system or if their system will handle this year's flow. Again, we are faced with a common thread, albeit not a fun one, and we find ourselves praying and hoping the season is turned around with rain.
I'm a farmer's daughter- I understand the concern, the constant look to the skies, and the hushed tones when the weather comes on. This year is potentially another tough one. However, let's not lose sight of the hope each spring brings. Take some time to revel in the beauty of our surroundings, the community of water folks we each belong to, and the fact that we've made it through tough things together and we will continue to do so because we know the value of what we do.
Here's to another water season,
Amber Weber, Executive Director