South Fork Clearwater

Watershed Hydrology

The South Fork Clearwater Watershed (HUC 17060305) covers an area of approximately 1,520 square miles in northern Idaho. The watershed is dominated by forested mountains and is characterized by steep slopes and canyons. The South Fork Clearwater River is the main river in the watershed, and its headwaters originate in the Bitterroot Mountains. The watershed receives significant snowfall in the winter months, which contributes to the river's flow in the spring and early summer. The river also receives contributions from numerous tributaries, including Orogrande Creek and Moose Creek. The watershed contains several small reservoirs, including Elk Creek Reservoir and Lake Creek Reservoir. The climate in the watershed is characterized by cold winters and warm summers, with precipitation occurring primarily in the form of snow during the winter months. In recent years, the watershed has experienced drought conditions and increased wildfire activity.


Surface Flows

South Fork Clearwater Watershed

Snowpack Depths

South Fork Clearwater Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

South Fork Clearwater Watershed

Groundwater Levels

South Fork Clearwater Watershed

South Fork Clearwater Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed