Twelvepole
Watershed Hydrology
The Twelvepole Watershed, located in western West Virginia, covers an area of approximately 418 square miles. The watershed is characterized by steep slopes and narrow ridges, resulting in important hydrological features such as high stream gradients and rapid runoff. The area experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. The winter season sees the heaviest snowfall, with snowpack accumulation typically reaching up to 2-3 feet in the upper elevations. The watershed contains several small reservoirs, which are used for flood control and water supply. The surface water in the watershed is affected by runoff from agricultural land, logging activities, and urban development. Interestingly, the area has seen an increase in precipitation over the last few decades, likely due to climate change. This increase in precipitation has led to an increase in flash flooding events in the area.