The Upper Kansas Watershed (HUC 10270101) covers an area of approximately 4,320 square miles in northeastern Kansas. The watershed is characterized by rolling hills and extensive croplands that produce significant amounts of sediment and nutrients that negatively impact the water quality of the Kansas River. The hydrology of the watershed is dominated by the Kansas River, which is fed by several smaller tributaries. The region experiences a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Snowpack is minimal, with an average snowfall of 13 inches per year. Surface water in the watershed is used for agricultural, industrial, and municipal purposes. There are several reservoirs in the watershed, including Tuttle Creek Lake and Clinton Lake, which provide flood control, recreation, and water supply. The climatic trend in the watershed is towards more extreme weather events, including droughts and floods, which can impact water quality and availability.