Upper Rio Grande

Watershed Hydrology

The upper Rio Grande watershed (HUC 13020101) covers an area of approximately 10,800 square miles, spanning parts of Colorado and New Mexico. The hydrology of the area is largely dependent on snowpack, with the majority of the annual precipitation falling as snow during the winter months. The snow melt in the spring contributes to the surface water supply of the region, which feeds into the Rio Grande River. There are several reservoirs within the watershed that are used for water storage and management, including Elephant Butte Reservoir and Heron Reservoir. The area has experienced drought conditions in recent years, leading to reduced snowpack and surface water availability. Climate trends indicate a warmer, drier future for the region, which may have significant impacts on the hydrology and ecology of the area.


Surface Flows

Upper Rio Grande Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Upper Rio Grande Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Upper Rio Grande Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Upper Rio Grande Watershed

Upper Rio Grande Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed