West Walker
Watershed Hydrology
The West Walker Watershed covers an area of approximately 1,181 square miles in the eastern Sierra Nevada region of California. The hydrology of the watershed is heavily influenced by snowpack, with winter snow accumulation providing the majority of the surface water supply. The watershed contains numerous reservoirs, including the Bridgeport Reservoir, which provides water for irrigation, power generation, and recreation. In recent years, the West Walker Watershed has experienced significant changes in snowpack and hydrological patterns due to climate change. Snowpack levels have declined, resulting in decreased surface water availability and increased risk of wildfires. Additionally, warmer temperatures have led to earlier snowmelt and more frequent extreme weather events, such as droughts and floods. Overall, the West Walker Watershed is an important resource for the surrounding communities and ecosystems, and ongoing monitoring and management efforts are necessary to ensure its sustainability in the face of changing climatic conditions.