Snowpack Change (IMAGE) Princeton University Caption Princeton University-led researchers report that the total deforestation of the Amazon may significantly reduce rain and snowfall in the western United States, including a 50 percent reduction in the Sierra Nevada snowpack that is a crucial source of water for cities and farms in California. The simulation showed that the water equivalent of the snowpack by April 1 decreased in range and depth from pre-deforestation levels (left) when the Amazon was cleared (right). The depth is measured in centimeters with the redder areas indicating more snow. Credit Images by David Medvigy Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.