A researcher with the Colorado Water Conservation Board says cloud seeding in southwestern Colorado is helping to squeeze more water out of passing snowstorms by using heaters to vaporize silver iodide and form artificial ice.
Officials say a study in Wyoming conducted from 2005 to 2014 found cloud seeding can add 5 to 15 percent more precipitation.
The Durango Herald reports regional water agencies and ski resorts paid $237,900 this season to help with the seeding.
Some people doubt whether cloud seeding is effective, while others say it may be taking water away from others who need it.