WEATHER 



Annudl precipi tdtion, growing season (April-July) precipitation, and 

 winter (November-March) precipitation were compiled from weather stations 

 CO document moisture availability for vegetation and waterfowl and the amount 

 of winter snow cover. Average January and July temperatures were monitored 

 as well, as they are related to the amounts of thermal stress experienced 

 by wildlife during che months which typically have the lowest and highest 

 average temperatures. Using these data, a "severe" winter can be identified 

 as one with a lower than normal January temperature and higher than normal 

 November-March precipitation (for example, the winter of 1978-79). 



Figures 3 and 4 summarize year-to-year changes in the weather at the 

 Circle and Fort Peck recording stations. Despite a relatively cool, moist 

 spring, 1979 was a relatively dry year; growing season precipitation was at 

 or below normal and precipitation for the remainder of the year was well 

 below normal. Average July 1979 temperatures were slightly higher than 

 normal. Winter precipitation was normal or slightly below normal during 

 the study period, and average January temperatures were near normal, re- 

 sulting in a mild winter with very little snow cover. 



