State finds mountain snowpack is 119 percent of normal

SPOKANE, Wash. — SPOKANE, Wash. (AP) - The state Department of Ecology says this has been a good winter for the state's mountain snowpack, which provides water during dry summer months.

Statewide, the mountain snowpack is 119 percent of normal.

The agency calls that a "Big wow" for farmers, fish managers and water users in cities and towns.

The agency credits cold, snowy weather during the later stages of winter for the good news.

Mountain snow that gradually melts replenishes reservoirs and groundwater across the state.

The state says the snowpack is particularly good in the Olympic Mountains, north Puget Sound and upper Columbia River basins.

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Associated Press