How Changing Snowmelt affects Water in the Western U.S.

In this activity students will investigate how snowpack acts as a natural water storage system and how changes in snow accumulation and melt timing affect streamflow and water availability in the Western United States. Using a USGS interactive visualization and real monitoring data, students will analyze trends, interpret hydrologic variables, and evaluate downstream impacts on people and ecosystems. This activity aligns with Next Generation Science Standards for high school science education.