Lac Qui Parle

Watershed Hydrology

The Lac Qui Parle watershed is located in southwestern Minnesota and covers an area of approximately 3,300 square miles. The hydrology of the watershed is dominated by the Minnesota River, which flows through the center of the area. The snowpack in the watershed is variable, with average winter snowfall ranging from 20-30 inches. Surface water in the watershed is primarily composed of rivers, lakes, and wetlands, which provide important habitat for fish and wildlife. The watershed also contains several large reservoirs, including the Lac Qui Parle Reservoir and the Upper Minnesota River Reservoir. These reservoirs are important for flood control, irrigation, and recreation. Interesting climatic facts about the watershed include its location on the edge of the Great Plains, which results in frequent severe weather events including tornadoes and thunderstorms. In recent years, the watershed has experienced increased precipitation and flooding events, which may be linked to climate change.


Surface Flows

Lac Qui Parle Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Lac Qui Parle Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Lac Qui Parle Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Lac Qui Parle Watershed

Lac Qui Parle Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed