The Thief Watershed, located in Minnesota and North Dakota, has a land area of approximately 3,259 square miles. The hydrology of the watershed is dominated by the Red River, which runs through the region and has a significant impact on the surface water and snowpack. The Thief Watershed receives an average of 30-40 inches of snow each year, with higher elevations receiving more. Surface water in the watershed is primarily sourced from the Red River, as well as smaller streams and creeks. Reservoirs in the region include the Sand Hill, Orwell, and Maple River reservoirs. The primary constituents of these reservoirs include sediment, nutrients, and organic matter. Climatically, the Thief Watershed experiences harsh winters, with temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. In recent years, there has been a trend of warmer temperatures and less snowfall in the region, leading to concerns about reduced water availability in the future. The Thief Watershed is also susceptible to flooding, particularly during the spring months as snow melts and the Red River swells.