Utah now runs the world’s largest remote cloud seeding program

190 generators boost snowpack statewide

Utah now operates the world’s largest remote-controlled cloud seeding program.

The state has 190 generators that workers can turn on from a distance, and the network covers mountain ranges across the entire state. No other state or country has a remote system this large.

Utah has been cloud seeding since the early 1950s, but recent investments have transformed the program into something far more powerful and precise.

How cloud seeding works

Cloud seeding releases tiny silver iodide particles into winter storm clouds.

The particles help water in clouds freeze into ice crystals, and those crystals grow into snowflakes that fall to the ground. The process does not create storms or make them stronger.

It only works when clouds with moisture are already in the sky, which means timing and weather conditions must line up just right.

The legislature approved $12 million in 2023

The Utah Legislature approved $12 million in one-time funding in 2023 and added $5 million in ongoing yearly funding. Before this, the state spent only about $200,000 to $350,000 per year on cloud seeding.

The money was paid for new remote-controlled generators across the state.

Utah lawmakers have put nearly $1 billion toward water efforts since 2020, showing just how seriously they take the drought.

The Great Salt Lake hit a record low

The Great Salt Lake dropped to its lowest level ever in November 2022. The lake fell to 4,188.5 feet above sea level, which was 22 feet below its normal average.

A long drought and growing population had drained water supplies across the region.

About 95% of Utah’s water comes from melting mountain snow, so boosting snowpack became an urgent priority for state leaders.

Remote control improves safety and speed

Workers used to hike up mountains in storms to turn on generators by hand.

Now they can switch generators on and off from an office, which allows faster response when storms arrive. Remote control also lets workers place generators in higher spots that were too hard to reach before.

The system improves safety and makes the whole program more effective at capturing moisture from passing storms.

Snowpack has increased by 10% on average

State officials reported a 10.4% average increase in snowpack statewide.

Engineer Jake Serago shared these numbers at an October 2025 board meeting. Studies over the years show cloud seeding adds 5% to 15% more precipitation to targeted areas.

Utah estimates the program adds about 200,000 acre-feet of water to streams yearly, and one acre-foot supplies about one or two homes for a full year.

Utah tests drones in clouds

Utah became the first state to have an experimental drone cloud seeding program.

Drones can fly directly into clouds and release silver iodide at the best spots, and they work in areas where ground generators cannot reach. Testing began in February 2025 in Cache Valley.

The state plans to use drones near the La Sal Mountains, Fillmore, Moab, and Kamas as the program expands.

Largest research study ever launched

Researchers launched SNOWSCAPE 2026 this winter, which is the largest cloud seeding study Utah has ever done.

Scientists from the University of Utah and Utah State University are leading the work, and the National Center for Atmospheric Research is also helping.

The team is studying storms over the northern Wasatch Mountains to learn exactly how effective seeding can be.

Scientists use laser-based tools

Researchers are using laser-based technology to examine clouds during storms.

The instruments measure liquid water content and how storms change over time, and these tools are far more advanced than typical weather sensors.

Scientists will collect data during both seeded and non-seeded storms for comparison. The study will take at least two years to complete before results are published.

Other states are paying for Utah seeding

Arizona, California, and Nevada send about $500,000 yearly to Utah for cloud seeding because those states depend on Colorado River water that starts as Utah snow.

Idaho invested $1 million in Utah’s cloud seeding near the Bear River.

Water officials across the drought-stricken West are paying close attention, and Utah’s results could push other states to expand their own programs.

Cloud seeding is just one tool

Experts say cloud seeding alone will not solve Utah’s water problems. The state also needs conservation and smarter water use from residents and businesses.

Cloud seeding only works when winter storms bring moisture, and climate change could reduce the number of storms suitable for seeding.

Utah is combining cloud seeding with many other water-saving efforts to prepare for the future.

Water costs just $5 to $15 per acre-foot

Cloud seeding produces water at about $5 to $15 per acre-foot, which is far cheaper than other options like turning ocean water into drinking water.

The low cost makes it attractive for water managers across the West who need affordable solutions.

Silver iodide has been tested for decades and is considered safe, with levels found in water far below federal safety limits.

Utah awaits the 2034 Winter Olympics

Utah is home to five national parks known as the Mighty Five, along with world-famous ski resorts that get light, dry powder snow.

The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, and visitors can see bison herds at Antelope Island State Park.

Salt Lake City will host the Winter Olympics again in 2034, bringing the world back to this stunning corner of the American West.

This article was created with AI assistance and human editing.

Read more from this brand:

• Western ski resorts are so desperate for snow, they’re sending drones into clouds
• Feds Want More Cattle Grazing on Public Lands – Wildlife Groups Say It’s a Disaster
• Lake Powell is approaching dead pool status as water levels plummet