The Upper Des Moines Watershed covers an area of approximately 7,735 square miles in Iowa and Minnesota. It contains 1,950 miles of streams and rivers and over 350 lakes and reservoirs. The watershed is characterized by rolling hills and productive agricultural land. The hydrology of the area is dominated by a humid continental climate, with precipitation events occurring throughout the year. In terms of snowpack, the watershed receives an average of 30-40 inches of snow per year, with higher amounts in northern areas. Surface water quality is generally good, with some areas experiencing elevated levels of nitrate and phosphorus due to agricultural runoff. Reservoirs in the area are used for flood control, recreation, and water supply. Interesting climatic trends include an increase in extreme precipitation events and longer growing seasons in recent decades.