Rio Chama

Watershed Hydrology

The Rio Chama Watershed covers an area of approximately 3,800 square miles and is located in northern New Mexico. The watershed is primarily a snowmelt-dominated system, with the San Juan Mountains providing the majority of the river's flow. The Rio Chama is a tributary of the Rio Grande and is known for its exceptional fishing and recreational opportunities. The watershed contains several large reservoirs, including the Heron and El Vado Reservoirs. Interestingly, the Rio Chama is also home to several prehistoric and historic archaeological sites, including Pueblo ruins and early Spanish settlements. In recent years, the Rio Chama Watershed has experienced reduced snowpack and lower streamflows, leading to concerns about water availability for both ecological and human uses. Climate projections suggest that the watershed may see continued warming and drying trends in the future.


Surface Flows

Rio Chama Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Rio Chama Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Rio Chama Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Rio Chama Watershed

Rio Chama Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed