South Wichita

Watershed Hydrology

The South Wichita Watershed (HUC 11130205) covers an area of approximately 1,700 square miles in south-central Kansas. The watershed is characterized by relatively flat terrain and is drained by the Arkansas River and its tributaries. The hydrology of the watershed is influenced by a combination of natural and human factors, including precipitation, soil type, and land use practices. The area experiences a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Snowfall is typically moderate, with an average of around 18 inches per year. Surface water resources in the watershed include Cheney Reservoir, which serves as the primary source of drinking water for surrounding communities. The reservoir is also used for recreational activities such as fishing and boating. Important climatic trends in the South Wichita Watershed include a decline in precipitation over the past several decades, as well as an increase in the frequency and severity of droughts. These trends have significant implications for water availability and management in the region.


Surface Flows

South Wichita Watershed

Snowpack Depths

South Wichita Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

South Wichita Watershed

Groundwater Levels

South Wichita Watershed

South Wichita Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed