2025/10/17 by Anping Huang, Shourya Mehta, Li, Yaron +3
paper · doi:10.13021/jssr2024.4338
The accumulation and melting of snow water significantly impacts water resources, energy systems, agricultural productivity, and ecological balances across diverse regions. This study analyzes trends and variability in Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) over the past decade, focusing on its effects on agriculture, social dynamics, and economic factors in the Western United States. Analysis of SWE data collected over 10 years (2013-2023) reveals significant shifts in SWE patterns, with earlier declines in spring and more severe reductions during summer, driven by accelerated temperature increases and altered precipitation dynamics. Although SWE variability has known effects on various sectors, there is a significant gap in integrated studies that combine agricultural, social, and economic impacts, particularly in the Western U.S. This research addresses this gap by employing advanced machine-learning techniques to analyze the effect of SWE variability on agricultural productivity and associated economic outcomes. Regression models and machine learning techniques were utilized to analyze 10 years of SWE data, crop yields, and water availability, focusing on the Western US. We employed statistical methods and machine learning algorithms based on SWE variability to identify patterns and relationships within the data and seek actionable insights into agricultural outcomes and their economic impacts, offering strategies for better water resource management and improved economic resilience in agriculture. We identified strong correlations between SWE variability and crop yields, with specific impacts on water-intensive crops. This research provides actionable insights for agricultural planning and water resource management in the face of changing SWE patterns.