Upper North Platte

Watershed Hydrology

The Upper North Platte Watershed (HUC 10180002) covers an area of approximately 2,650 square miles in southern Wyoming and northern Colorado. The hydrology of the watershed is dominated by the North Platte River, which is fed by snowmelt and precipitation in the surrounding mountains. The snowpack in the watershed is typically significant, with peak snow accumulation occurring in early April. Surface water in the watershed is largely composed of runoff from snowmelt and precipitation. The area contains several reservoirs, including the Seminoe Reservoir and the Pathfinder Reservoir, which are important for irrigation and flood control. Interesting climatic facts and trends include a warming trend over the last several decades, particularly in the winter months, and an increase in extreme weather events such as heavy precipitation and drought. Additionally, the watershed is home to several species of fish, including the cutthroat trout and mountain whitefish.


Surface Flows

Upper North Platte Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Upper North Platte Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Upper North Platte Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Upper North Platte Watershed

Upper North Platte Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed