South Fork Humboldt
Watershed Hydrology
The South Fork Humboldt watershed covers an area of approximately 2,670 square miles in northeastern Nevada. The hydrology of the watershed is dominated by the South Fork Humboldt River, which flows through the valley floor and is fed by several tributaries. The watershed is characterized by a high elevation range, with peaks reaching over 11,000 feet. The area experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cold winters with significant snowfall. Snowpack in the area is an important source of water, with peak snow accumulation typically occurring in February. The South Fork Reservoir is the largest surface water storage facility in the watershed and provides irrigation and recreation opportunities. The watershed is also home to several rare plant and animal species, including the Lahontan cutthroat trout. Climate change is predicted to increase temperatures and decrease snowpack in the area, which could impact water resources and ecosystem health.