The University of Nevada, Reno is being awarded $4.97 million thanks to a grant from the USDA. University scientists will be joined by the Desert Research Institute, Northern Arizona University and Arizona State University to study how changes in the mountain snowpack affect industries like agriculture.

Over the next five years, the team will look at how changes in the mountain snowpack affect available water, which basins in the arid West are most at risk, and how changes in available water affect the economic well-being of various groups.

Acting NIDA Director Tom Shanower said, “By investing in projects that address a critical problem for American agriculture, we aim to find better tools and technologies for water management practices that make a difference for our farmers, ranchers, and foresters.”