Lower North Fork Red

Watershed Hydrology

The Lower North Fork Red Watershed (HUC 11120303) covers an area of approximately 255 square miles in northwest Colorado. It is primarily a high-elevation mountainous region, with elevations ranging from 6,000 to 12,000 feet. The watershed is fed by snowmelt and precipitation, which contribute to the hydrology of the region. The snowpack in the region is an important source of water for the watershed, with the winter months being the heaviest snowfall period. Surface water in the watershed is primarily made up of streams and rivers, which flow into the Colorado River. The watershed also contains several small reservoirs that are used for water storage and recreation. The reservoirs are primarily fed by runoff from snowmelt and precipitation. Climatic trends in the region show that temperatures have been increasing over the past few decades, leading to earlier snowmelt and changes in the timing and amount of water availability. Additionally, the region has experienced an increase in the frequency and severity of wildfires, which can have significant impacts on water quality and availability.


Surface Flows

Lower North Fork Red Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Lower North Fork Red Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Lower North Fork Red Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Lower North Fork Red Watershed

Lower North Fork Red Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed