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Governor Polis Activates Phase 3 of Colorado's Drought Response Plan, Declares Statewide Drought Emergency

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DENVER ~ Denver, CO - Governor Jared Polis has taken action in response to the worsening drought conditions in Colorado by activating Phase 3 of the state's Drought Response Plan and issuing a statewide Drought Emergency declaration. This decision comes after months of monitoring water and drought conditions across the state, as recommended by the Colorado Drought Task Force and Water Conditions Monitoring Committee.

In a statement, Governor Polis expressed his concern for the severe drought that has affected Colorado. "Today I am issuing a statewide drought emergency to support Coloradans, our economy, farmers and ranchers, and outdoor enthusiasts in the face of one of the most severe droughts in Colorado's recorded history," he said. With every county in the state experiencing some level of drought, activating Phase 3 of the Drought Response Plan will allow for better coordination between agencies, preparation for worsening conditions, and support for communities, agriculture, water users, and the environment.

Phase 2 of the Drought Response Plan was activated in March 2026 and brought together the statewide Drought Task Force. The activation of Phase 3 includes an official Drought Emergency declaration by Governor Polis and enables the state to take additional emergency response actions. These actions may include potential emergency funding for unmet response needs, a request for a federal disaster declaration, and reductions in outdoor water usage at state facilities.

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According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor released on June 4th, all 64 counties in Colorado are currently experiencing at least Abnormally Dry conditions (D0), with nearly 93% of the state facing Moderate to Exceptional Drought (D1-D4). The record-low snowpack accumulation this season has also led to May 1 streamflow forecasts projecting only 21% to 37% of median runoff across Colorado river basins. Additionally, this water year (October 2025 - Present) has been recorded as the warmest on record in Colorado, contributing to early snowmelt, extremely low river flows, diminished soil moisture conditions, and elevated wildfire risk statewide.

Dan Gibbs, Executive Director of the Department of Natural Resources, acknowledged the challenging conditions but also highlighted the efforts being made by state agencies and local partners. "While our ongoing conditions are challenging, state agencies, water managers, and local partners across Colorado have been working closely together for months to prepare, coordinate resources, and respond proactively," he said. "Activating Phase 3 is a message to Coloradans that our drought conditions are serious and gives the state additional flexibility to address unmet needs and continue supporting communities as conditions evolve."

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Under Phase 3 of the Drought Response Plan, any requests for additional support or funding must be tied to specific needs and response actions. These requests will be evaluated by the Drought Task Force and brought to Governor Polis as necessary.

Lauren Ris, Director of the Colorado Water Conservation Board, emphasized the importance of this declaration in ensuring that Colorado remains prepared for future drought impacts. "The state has been actively preparing for evolving drought conditions throughout the season," she stated. "For the last decade, we have supported Colorado communities and water users in becoming more drought resilient. This declaration is an important step that ensures Colorado remains prepared, coordinated, and responsive as drought impacts continue to intensify across the state."

As part of Phase 3 activation, the Drought Task Force will meet regularly to monitor conditions, coordinate interagency response efforts, identify unmet needs, elevate local impacts, and share drought resources and support available to Colorado communities and water users. The state remains committed to addressing this severe drought situation and providing assistance where needed.

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