Lower South Platte

Watershed Hydrology

The Lower South Platte watershed covers an area of approximately 6,726 square miles in northeastern Colorado, USA. The region is characterized by a semi-arid climate with an average annual precipitation of 15-20 inches, mostly in the form of snow during the winter months. The watershed is primarily fed by the South Platte River and its tributaries, including the Cache la Poudre, Big Thompson, and St. Vrain rivers. The watershed is home to several major reservoirs, including Horsetooth Reservoir and Carter Lake. These reservoirs are used for irrigation, flood control, and recreation. The water in the reservoirs is primarily used for agriculture, with corn, wheat, and hay being the main crops. In recent years, the region has experienced increased precipitation and flooding, which has led to changes in the hydrological cycle. Additionally, the region has experienced longer and more frequent droughts, which have impacted agriculture and water availability. The Lower South Platte watershed plays a critical role in providing water for both agricultural and urban uses in northeastern Colorado.


Surface Flows

Lower South Platte Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Lower South Platte Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Lower South Platte Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Lower South Platte Watershed

Lower South Platte Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed