Little Red
Watershed Hydrology
The Little Red Watershed (HUC 11010014) spans across a total land area of approximately 862 square miles in central Alberta, Canada. It is a headwater region for the North Saskatchewan River basin and is characterized by its unique hydrology, which is defined by diverse land use practices and various water management structures. The watershed is also known for its specific snowpack, which is influenced by the region's mountainous terrain and its location in a region with a continental climate. Surface water in the Little Red Watershed is primarily sourced from snowmelt and precipitation, with the majority of this water flowing into the Red Deer River. The region's reservoirs contain a mixture of water from different sources, including agricultural runoff and treated wastewater. Interesting climatic facts and trends in the Little Red Watershed include the region's high variability in temperature and precipitation, as well as its vulnerability to droughts and floods. In recent years, the region has experienced an increase in extreme weather events, including intense rainfall, snowfall, and windstorms, which have had a significant impact on the region's hydrology and water resources.