Keya Paha

Watershed Hydrology

The Keya Paha Watershed (HUC 10150006) covers approximately 1,251 square miles in north-central Nebraska. It is part of the larger Missouri River Basin and is primarily agricultural land with some areas of forest and grassland. The watershed is drained by the Keya Paha River and its tributaries, which flow into the Niobrara River. The hydrology of the watershed is shaped by the semi-arid climate of the region, with precipitation mainly occurring during the summer months. The watershed also experiences frequent flooding due to heavy rainfall events and spring snowmelt. Snowpack in the watershed is typically light, with the majority of precipitation falling as rain. Surface water in the Keya Paha Watershed is dominated by the Keya Paha River, which provides habitat for a variety of fish species, including the endangered pallid sturgeon. The watershed also contains several small reservoirs used for irrigation and recreation. Climatic trends in the region include increasing temperatures, particularly during the winter months, and more frequent extreme weather events, such as droughts and intense precipitation events. These trends may have implications for both water resources and agriculture in the Keya Paha Watershed.


Surface Flows

Keya Paha Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Keya Paha Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Keya Paha Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Keya Paha Watershed

Keya Paha Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed