South Fork Holston

Watershed Hydrology

The South Fork Holston Watershed (HUC 06010102) covers an area of 1,726 square miles in southwestern Virginia and northeastern Tennessee. The area is characterized by a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The watershed is fed by several tributaries and is home to the South Holston and Watauga Reservoirs, which are used for flood control and water supply. The area experiences an average annual precipitation of 44 inches, with snowfall averaging around 22 inches per year. The watershed has a diverse range of vegetation, from pine forests to hardwood forests, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including trout, bass, and otters. One interesting climatic fact is that the region experiences occasional droughts, which can have significant impacts on the water supply and wildlife. In recent years, there has been concern over the high levels of nutrients and sediment in the reservoirs, which can lead to harmful algal blooms and impact water quality. Efforts are being made to reduce nutrient and sediment runoff and improve the health of the watershed.


Surface Flows

South Fork Holston Watershed

Snowpack Depths

South Fork Holston Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

South Fork Holston Watershed

Groundwater Levels

South Fork Holston Watershed

South Fork Holston Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed