The Lower Santa Cruz Watershed (HUC 15050303) is located in southern Arizona, spanning approximately 1,360 square miles. It is characterized by a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters. The area receives an average of 12 inches of precipitation annually, with the majority falling during the summer monsoon season. The watershed is home to the Santa Cruz River, which is fed by several tributaries, including the Sonoita Creek, Pantano Wash, and Cienega Creek. The hydrology of the watershed is largely dependent on the Santa Cruz River, which runs through the area from north to south. The river is primarily fed by surface water runoff from the surrounding mountains, as well as groundwater from the surrounding aquifer. The watershed also has several reservoirs, including the Sahuarita Lake and the Pena Blanca Lake, which are used for recreational activities. The Lower Santa Cruz Watershed has a unique snowpack situation, as it is located in a desert region with little to no snowfall. Consequently, the watershed's hydrology is largely reliant on other forms of precipitation, such as rain. Overall, the Lower Santa Cruz Watershed is an important ecological and hydrological region in Arizona, providing vital water resources to the surrounding communities and supporting a diverse range of flora and fauna.