Upper Cumberland-Lake Cumberland
Watershed Hydrology
The Upper Cumberland Lake Cumberland Watershed (HUC 05130103) covers approximately 2,800 square miles in southern Kentucky and northern Tennessee. The hydrology of the region is dominated by the Cumberland River, with numerous tributaries and streams feeding into the river. The region experiences a significant amount of snowfall during the winter months, and this snowpack contributes to the surface water runoff during the spring thaw. The primary surface water feature in the watershed is Lake Cumberland, which is a large reservoir that was formed by the Wolf Creek Dam. The reservoir is used for hydroelectric power generation, recreation, and water supply. The primary constituents in the reservoir are sediment, nutrients, and algae. Interesting climatic facts and trends for the region include increasing temperatures and precipitation, as well as an increased frequency of extreme weather events such as floods and droughts.