Upper Virgin
Watershed Hydrology
The Upper Virgin Watershed (HUC 15010008) covers an area of approximately 1,090 square miles in southwestern Utah and northwestern Arizona. The area is characterized by rugged mountains, deep canyons, and high plateaus, with elevations ranging from 2,000 to over 10,000 feet. The watershed is fed by precipitation and snowmelt, which contributes to the Virgin River that runs through the area. The snowpack in the watershed is highly variable, with some areas receiving up to 500 inches of snow annually, while others receive less than 100 inches. The water in the reservoirs in the watershed is used for both agricultural and municipal purposes. Interesting climatic facts include the region's high temperatures, which can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer, and the occasional flash floods that occur due to intense thunderstorms. Trends in the area include decreasing snowpack and increasing temperatures, which may have implications for water availability in the future.