The Upper Gila-Mangas watershed covers an area of approximately 2,978 square miles in southwestern New Mexico. The watershed is characterized by a mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 4,000 to 10,000 feet above sea level. The hydrology of the watershed is primarily influenced by monsoonal precipitation in the summer months and occasional winter storms. Snowpack in the watershed is generally light, with average accumulations of less than 20 inches. Surface water in the watershed is dominated by the Gila River and its tributaries, which provide important habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Reservoirs in the watershed are primarily used for irrigation and recreation. Climatically, the Upper Gila-Mangas watershed is subject to frequent droughts and flash floods, which can have significant impacts on local communities and ecosystems. In recent years, the area has experienced a trend towards decreased precipitation and increased temperatures, which may exacerbate these impacts in the future.