Arkansas Headwaters

Watershed Hydrology

The Arkansas Headwaters Watershed (HUC 11020001) spans over 3,000 square miles in Colorado and is home to the Arkansas River, a major source of water for the western United States. The region experiences a semi-arid climate with an average annual precipitation of 12-16 inches. Snowpack in the watershed provides important water storage and can account for up to 80% of the annual runoff. The Arkansas River itself is heavily used for irrigation, municipal water supply, and recreation. The reservoirs in the watershed, including Twin Lakes and Pueblo Reservoir, play a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing storage capacity. In recent years, the Arkansas River watershed has experienced drought conditions due to changing climatic trends, including decreased snowpack and increased temperatures. The region is also vulnerable to wildfires, which can have significant impacts on water quality and quantity.


Surface Flows

Arkansas Headwaters Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Arkansas Headwaters Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Arkansas Headwaters Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Arkansas Headwaters Watershed

Arkansas Headwaters Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed