Wills
Watershed Hydrology
The Wills Watershed (HUC 05040005) spans across an area of approximately 213 square miles in northwest Wyoming. The watershed is characterized by a high elevation mountainous terrain with peaks above 11,000 feet. The hydrology of the area is dominated by snowmelt, which peaks in June and July. The snowpack is highly variable and can range from 90% to 200% of average. Surface water in the watershed is primarily found in streams and rivers, including the Wills Creek, which is a tributary to the Shoshone River. The watershed contains several reservoirs, including the Newton Lakes and the Wapiti Reservoir. Interesting climatic facts and trends include an increase in precipitation in recent years and an overall warming trend, causing changes in snowmelt timing and shifts in vegetation zones.