Lake Walcott
Watershed Hydrology
The Lake Walcott Watershed (HUC 17040209) covers an area of approximately 604 square miles in south-central Idaho. The watershed is fed by snowmelt and precipitation from the surrounding mountains, and is home to the Snake River and its tributaries. The snowpack in the watershed is variable, with the highest levels typically occurring in the winter months. Surface water in the watershed is primarily used for irrigation and recreation, and the Lake Walcott reservoir is the largest water body in the area. The reservoir is fed by the Snake River and is used for hydroelectric power generation, flood control, and recreation. Interestingly, the area has a semi-arid climate with precipitation levels ranging from 10-20 inches per year. Recent trends indicate that the region is experiencing more frequent and severe drought conditions, which can impact the availability of water resources in the watershed.