Upper Musselshell

Watershed Hydrology

The Upper Musselshell Watershed (HUC 10040201) covers approximately 5,700 square miles in central Montana. It is characterized by a predominantly arid climate with low annual precipitation and high evapotranspiration rates. The hydrology of the watershed is mainly composed of intermittent streams and small tributaries that flow into the Musselshell River. Snowpack in the watershed is typically low due to the arid climate, but occasional winter storms can bring significant snow accumulation in higher elevations. Surface water in the watershed is used for agricultural irrigation and livestock production, and there are several small reservoirs in the area. The reservoirs are primarily used for irrigation and recreation. The Upper Musselshell Watershed experiences periodic droughts, making water availability a crucial concern for the agricultural community. In recent years, the watershed has seen an increase in temperature and a decrease in precipitation, which may affect the availability of surface water resources.


Surface Flows

Upper Musselshell Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Upper Musselshell Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Upper Musselshell Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Upper Musselshell Watershed

Upper Musselshell Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed