Little Sandy
Watershed Hydrology
The Little Sandy Watershed (HUC 05090104) encompasses an area of approximately 1,210 square miles in western Wyoming. The watershed is primarily fed by snowpack, with most of the winter precipitation accumulating in the mountains and melting in the spring. The watershed contains several reservoirs that are used for irrigation, recreation, and drinking water. One interesting climatic fact is that the Little Sandy Watershed is located in a semi-arid region that experiences relatively low precipitation compared to other parts of the United States. As a result, water resources in the watershed are limited, and there is a strong emphasis on water conservation and management. In recent years, the watershed has experienced a trend of decreasing snowpack, which has led to lower streamflow and reduced water availability during the summer months. These changes have had significant impacts on the local ecosystem, particularly on fish populations and the availability of water for agriculture and other human uses.