Conewango
Watershed Hydrology
The Conewango Watershed (HUC 05010002) covers approximately 1,200 square miles in northwestern Pennsylvania and southwestern New York. The watershed is characterized by a humid continental climate and receives an average of 48 inches of precipitation per year, with about 30% of that falling as snow. The watershed is home to several reservoirs, including the Kinzua Dam, which was completed in 1965 for flood control and hydroelectric power generation. The watershed's hydrology is impacted by land use practices such as logging, agriculture, and urbanization, which can lead to increased runoff and erosion. The Conewango Creek, the primary surface water feature, is a popular destination for outdoor recreation such as fishing and kayaking. In recent years, the watershed has experienced an increase in extreme weather events, including heavy precipitation and flooding, which may be attributed to climate change.