Rainy Headwaters

Watershed Hydrology

The Rainy Headwaters Watershed (HUC 09030001) spans over 2,000 square miles in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Ontario, Canada. The region is characterized by numerous lakes, rivers, and wetlands that are part of the larger Rainy River Basin. The hydrology of the watershed is intricate, with extensive surface water and groundwater interactions. The region experiences a significant snowpack, with an average snow depth of around 2 feet in winter. The surface water quality is generally good, with some areas experiencing nutrient loading from agricultural runoff. The primary reservoirs within the watershed are Rainy Lake and Namakan Lake, which are both heavily regulated for hydroelectric power generation and water management. Interesting climatic facts include the region's position on the northern edge of the Great Plains, which results in cold winters and warm summers. Climate trends in the region include increasing temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events, such as heavy precipitation and flooding.


Surface Flows

Rainy Headwaters Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Rainy Headwaters Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Rainy Headwaters Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Rainy Headwaters Watershed

Rainy Headwaters Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed