Canadian Headwaters

Watershed Hydrology

The Canadian Headwaters Watershed (HUC 11080001) covers an area of approximately 6,200 square kilometers in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta and British Columbia. It is a critical source of water for downstream communities, providing hydroelectric power and irrigation water. The watershed is heavily influenced by snowmelt, which typically begins in April and peaks in June. The snowpack is closely monitored, as it is a key factor in predicting spring runoff and summer water availability. The surface water in the watershed is dominated by the Bow River and its tributaries, and supports a variety of fish species including rainbow trout and bull trout. The watershed also contains several reservoirs, including the Ghost Reservoir and Lake Minnewanka, which play an important role in regulating water flow downstream. Climate trends in the region have shown an increase in temperature and a decrease in snowpack, which can have significant impacts on water availability and ecosystem health.


Surface Flows

Canadian Headwaters Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Canadian Headwaters Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Canadian Headwaters Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Canadian Headwaters Watershed

Canadian Headwaters Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed