Red Willow

Watershed Hydrology

The Red Willow watershed (HUC 10250007) is located in the northeastern part of Wyoming and covers approximately 260 square miles. The area is characterized by semiarid to arid climate conditions, with low annual rainfall and high evaporation rates. The watershed is important as it provides water to several reservoirs, including the Keyhole Reservoir, which is a popular recreation site. The hydrology of the Red Willow watershed is influenced by its topography, climate, and geology. Snowpack in the watershed is an important source of water, and the timing and amount of melt can affect the hydrologic cycle. In recent years, however, warmer temperatures have led to earlier and faster melt, which can pose challenges for water management. Surface water quality in the watershed is monitored regularly, with particular attention paid to constituents such as total suspended solids, nutrients, and bacteria. The area is also prone to wildfires, which can affect water quality by increasing sedimentation and nutrient loading. In terms of interesting climatic facts and trends, the region has seen a trend towards warmer temperatures and more frequent and severe droughts in recent decades. These changes can have significant impacts on the hydrology of the watershed, as well as on the ecosystems and communities that depend on it.


Surface Flows

Red Willow Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Red Willow Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Red Willow Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Red Willow Watershed

Red Willow Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed