The Cooper Watershed, also known as HUC 03050201, covers an area of approximately 1,458 square miles and is located in central Colorado. The watershed is characterized by a high mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 7,000 to 14,000 feet. The hydrology of the area is primarily controlled by snowmelt, with the majority of the precipitation falling as snow during the winter months. The snowpack accumulates throughout the winter and begins to melt in the spring, providing a consistent source of surface water for the watershed. The surface water in the Cooper Watershed is primarily stored in reservoirs, with several large dams in the area. The water in these reservoirs is used for irrigation, municipal water supply, and recreational activities such as fishing and boating. Interesting climatic facts in the area include the fact that the Cooper Watershed is one of the snowiest places in Colorado, with an average of 300 inches of snowfall per year. Additionally, the area has experienced a warming trend in recent years, with temperatures increasing by approximately 1.5 degrees Fahrenheit over the last century. This warming trend has resulted in changes to the timing and magnitude of the snowmelt, which can have significant impacts on water resources in the area.