February 2026 | From the General Manager

As we look ahead to the start of irrigation season on March 15 here in the Lower Arkansas Valley, many of us do so with some uncertainty. This year is shaping up to be challenging for irrigated agriculture across Colorado. Crop prices remain low, and snowpack for the Arkansas River Basin is just 47% of median, the lowest in at least four decades of records. As Jared Gardner, a farmer on the Catlin Canal, recently said, “It would take a small miracle to get enough snow to give irrigators a break this season.”

Farmers are, in many ways, the ultimate risk takers. Every season requires significant investment and careful planning, even though so much is beyond their control. It takes faith, tough decisions, and perseverance to keep moving forward when conditions are difficult. 

At the same time, producers in the Lower Arkansas Valley have weathered hard cycles before, adapting with experience and determination. While we plan conservatively, we also know that late winter and spring storms can still improve our outlook.

To all of the agricultural producers throughout the Valley, thank you for your continued commitment to your land, communities, and the essential work you do. Your grit and resilience are the backbone of our region.

To celebrate the start of the irrigation season, the Lower Ark District will be buying coffee for our communities at three events. We hope you will join us for a cup. 

Sincerely,
Jack Goble
General Manager