The Huerfano watershed covers approximately 1,256 square miles in south-central Colorado. The hydrology is dominated by snowmelt, with peak stream flows occurring in May or June. The average snowpack is around 20 inches, with the highest elevations receiving up to 60 inches. The watershed contains several reservoirs, including Lathrop State Park and Horseshoe Reservoir, which provide water for irrigation, municipal, and recreational use. The water quality in the reservoirs is impacted by sediment and nutrient loading from agricultural and urban land use. The climate in the Huerfano watershed is semi-arid, with an average annual precipitation of 14 inches. Recent trends show an increase in temperature and a decrease in snowpack, which may impact water availability and ecosystem health in the future.