The Lower Smoky Hill watershed covers a land area of approximately 2,742 square miles in central Kansas. The area is characterized by a semi-arid climate, with an average annual precipitation of around 23 inches. The watershed is fed by the Smoky Hill River and several smaller tributaries, which provide a relatively steady flow of water throughout the year. Snowpack is generally minimal in this region, with most precipitation falling as rain. Surface water in the watershed is mostly used for irrigation and recreation, with several reservoirs providing storage and flood control. The main reservoirs in the watershed are Cedar Bluff Reservoir and Kanopolis Lake, both of which are managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Recent trends in the area suggest that precipitation and temperature patterns are becoming more erratic, with more frequent periods of drought and extreme weather events.