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COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- Many parts of southern Colorado are already receiving aid because of damage from early drought conditions. It will take a lot more than the recent rains to ease the driest elements seen since the Hayman Fire in 2002.

Producers along Fountain creek and the Arkansas River are seeing some of the lowest levels.

"The irrigators from Pueblo to the state line count on water coming from Fountain Creek, and it's not here," John Knapp, National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Conservationist, said.

Forecasters are optimistic on receiving some from the monsoon rains late in the season, but for this growing cycle many crops will see lower yields. Plus cattle have had to be shipped early due to pasture being sparse because of irrigation water running low.

"The die is already cast for this year, in respect to reduction in yield and reduction to acres planted," Knapp said. "And the effect it's having on the livestock industry."

NRCS estimates the Fountain Creek flow is nearly 60 percent of normal. Precipitation estimates are four to six inches below average for this time of year. In these dry times, farmers along the canals are making the most of what little water they have.

"The irrigators on produce use some very efficient irrigation techniques, so they are weathering this storm well, and there will be produce," Knapp said.

We can expect to see melons and fruits at the Farmer's Markets slightly ahead of schedule this season.

Officials with the NRCS said water stored in the reservoirs should be able to carry us through this season, so no city water restrictions are planned, however if we have a dry winter similar to last winter, we could see restrictions like the ones posted in 2002.