The Elm watershed (HUC 10160004) covers approximately 1,168 square miles in northeastern Oregon and is part of the larger Columbia River Basin. The area is characterized by a semi-arid climate with warm, dry summers and cold winters. Precipitation primarily occurs in the form of snow in the winter months, with an average snowpack of around 40 inches. The hydrology of the Elm watershed is dominated by the Umatilla River, which flows through the area and provides important habitat for several species of fish, including steelhead and Chinook salmon. The river is also used for irrigation and supports agriculture in the region. Surface water in the Elm watershed is generally of good quality, although monitoring has shown elevated levels of certain nutrients and bacteria in some areas. Several reservoirs in the watershed are used for irrigation and recreation, and monitoring has shown that they contain elevated levels of sediment and nutrients. In recent years, the Elm watershed has experienced drought conditions and reduced snowpack, which has impacted water availability for agriculture and other uses. Climate projections indicate that the area is likely to experience more frequent and severe drought in the future, which could have significant impacts on the region's economy and environment.