The South Umpqua watershed (HUC 17100302) covers an area of approximately 1,100 square miles in southwestern Oregon. It is primarily characterized by steep, forested mountains and narrow valleys. The hydrology of the watershed is dominated by the South Umpqua River, which flows from the high peaks of the Cascade Range to the Pacific Ocean. The region experiences significant snowfall during the winter months, which contributes to the surface water supply and reservoir constituents in the area. Climatic trends reveal an increase in average temperatures and a decrease in snowpack over the past several decades. Interesting climatic facts include the region's vulnerability to wildfires due to prolonged drought periods and the influence of the Pacific Ocean on local weather patterns. Overall, the South Umpqua watershed is an important ecological and economic resource for the region.