Middle Platte-Prairie

Watershed Hydrology

The Middle Platte Prairie Watershed, located in Nebraska, covers approximately 14,000 square miles and is part of the larger Platte River Basin. The watershed is characterized by flat to rolling terrain, and its hydrology is influenced by the Platte River, which runs through the region. The area experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Snowpack in the watershed is typically low due to the arid conditions, with an average of only 23 inches of snowfall per year. Surface water in the watershed supports a variety of wildlife, including fish, birds, and mammals. The largest reservoir in the watershed is Lake McConaughy, which serves as a major source of water for irrigation and recreation. Interesting climatic facts include the occurrence of severe droughts in the region, such as the Dust Bowl of the 1930s, which had long-lasting impacts on the landscape and agriculture in the area. Recent trends in the region include an increase in average temperatures and more frequent flooding events.


Surface Flows

Middle Platte-Prairie Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Middle Platte-Prairie Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Middle Platte-Prairie Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Middle Platte-Prairie Watershed

Middle Platte-Prairie Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed