Silver
Watershed Hydrology
The Silver watershed (HUC 15020005) covers an area of approximately 579 square miles in northern Idaho. The hydrology of the watershed is characterized by high snowpack, with snowmelt contributing to surface water flows in the spring and summer months. The watershed is home to several reservoirs, including the Dworshak Reservoir, which is the third-largest reservoir in Idaho by volume. The reservoir is used for hydroelectric power generation and recreational activities. Interesting climatic facts include the area's high annual precipitation, which ranges from 30 to 70 inches, and its location in the Northern Rockies, which makes it susceptible to severe weather events such as thunderstorms, hailstorms, and wildfires. There is a trend of increasing winter and spring temperatures in the watershed, which could have significant impacts on snowpack and water availability in the future.