Above-average rainfall through the winter kept our water levels above the usual expected range and extended the time when water pooled on the ground. Despite this rainy winter, the total rainfall recorded this year was 13 inches lower than the average since 2000. Higher-than-average rainfall in winter and early spring resulted in a delayed dry-down on May 30, 2024. The average dry-down date, or when the water level gauge at the Lettuce Lakes reads "0," is typically April 10. 

Above-average rainfall through the winter kept water levels above our usual expected range but once the rain slowed down, our dry-down rate was similar to what we’ve seen in the past. 

The delayed dry-down date and increased hydroperiods mean that prey (fish, crayfish, aquatic invertebrates) will be concentrated for a shorter amount of time and will have higher survival rates going into the wet season.