Read about the slideshow/photos at Merle's Outdoor Recreation Articles on examiner.com As of January 26, snowpack in Montana is extremely below average in all but the Smith, Judith, and Musselshell river basins which are in central and southwest Montana. All of western Montana is below average. The Bitterroot is currently at 56% and it is snowing. According to KECI Weather Station, in their viewing area the average level for this time of year is about 110 inches of snow. Some places have less than 51 inches. It will be difficult to make up that deficit in the winter months we have left. Visit the Montana Natural Resources Conservation Service for the latest numbers. Last year, many areas had below average snowpack levels at this time, but it wasn't as widespread. This year, the mid-January average has been undercut because of a combination of fewer winter weather storms and weaker storms. Up until this point in western Montana, if one wanted to recreate in snow you had to travel to the higher elevations such as driving to Lost Trail or Lolo Pass and other ski areas, or hike to higher elevations for backcountry skiing. Early winter snowpack totals are low, but the bulk of our snowfall can come in the mid to late winter season. However, predictions and weather models are indicating a slow season. Due to moderate El Nino conditions, which are forecasted to continue into early spring, the odds of catching up to, or getting ahead of, seasonal averages don't seem to be favorable. Unless mountain snowpack begins to pick up, rivers and streams across Montana could be running low this coming summer. Montana could also see an earlier and more active forest fire season. Both conditions could affect fishing, boating and swimming and if fires are prolific access to activities such as hiking and camping could be restricted or closed. Moral of the story, get out and recreate while you can.