Upper Pecos

Watershed Hydrology

The Upper Pecos Watershed (HUC 13060003) covers an area of approximately 1,130 square miles in northern New Mexico, USA. The hydrology of the watershed is dominated by the Pecos River, which is a major tributary of the Rio Grande. The snowpack in the watershed is a critical source of water for the basin, and snowmelt runoff contributes significantly to surface water flows. The watershed includes several reservoirs, including the Santa Fe Reservoir and Nichols Reservoir, which play an important role in water management for the area. Climatically, the watershed experiences a semi-arid to sub-humid climate, with an average annual precipitation of around 22 inches. However, recent trends show year-to-year variability in precipitation, with some years seeing significant drought conditions. In addition, the Upper Pecos Watershed is home to unique and diverse ecosystems, including riparian forests, meadows, and alpine tundra.


Surface Flows

Upper Pecos Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Upper Pecos Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Upper Pecos Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Upper Pecos Watershed

Upper Pecos Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed