Crooked
Watershed Hydrology
The Crooked Watershed (HUC 11040007) covers approximately 1,517 square miles in central Oregon. The hydrology of the area is heavily influenced by the Cascade Mountains, which receive significant snowfall in the winter that replenishes the surface water and reservoirs in the watershed during the spring and summer. The specific snowpack in the watershed varies from year to year, but typically peaks in April and May. Surface water in the watershed is primarily used for irrigation and municipal supplies. Reservoirs in the area include Prineville Reservoir and Lake Billy Chinook. Interesting climatic facts include the high variability in precipitation from year to year, with some years experiencing drought conditions and others experiencing heavy precipitation. Trends in the area include increased demand for water due to population growth and concerns over the effects of climate change on water availability.