Truckee

Watershed Hydrology

The Truckee watershed, located in Northern California and Nevada, covers an area of approximately 3,933 square miles. The watershed is primarily fed by snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada Mountains, making it highly dependent on specific snowpack conditions. The Truckee River is the main surface water feature and flows from Lake Tahoe through the cities of Reno and Sparks before reaching Pyramid Lake. The watershed also includes several reservoirs, such as Donner Lake and Stampede Reservoir, which provide water for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and recreation. Climate-wise, the Truckee watershed is subject to extreme weather conditions, including droughts and floods. In recent years, the area has experienced a trend of decreasing snowpack due to warming temperatures. This has led to concerns about water availability, particularly during dry years. Additionally, the region has experienced an increase in wildfires, which can have detrimental effects on water quality and supply. Overall, the Truckee watershed is a vital resource for the surrounding communities and requires careful management to ensure its sustainability for years to come.


Surface Flows

Truckee Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Truckee Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Truckee Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Truckee Watershed

Truckee Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed