South Skunk

Watershed Hydrology

The South Skunk Watershed (HUC 07080105) covers approximately 4,380 square miles in Central Iowa. The watershed is dominated by agricultural land use, with row crops and livestock production as the primary activities. Hydrologically, the watershed is characterized by a complex network of streams and rivers that drain into the South Skunk River, which ultimately flows into the Mississippi River. The watershed experiences a humid continental climate, with average annual precipitation of approximately 34 inches. Snowpack is variable but typically ranges from 10 to 30 inches, depending on location within the watershed. Surface water quality is impacted by high levels of sediment and nutrients, largely due to agricultural runoff. Reservoirs within the watershed are used for flood control, recreational activities, and municipal water supply. In recent years, the watershed has experienced increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including flooding and drought.


Surface Flows

South Skunk Watershed

Snowpack Depths

South Skunk Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

South Skunk Watershed

Groundwater Levels

South Skunk Watershed

South Skunk Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed