Coast Fork Willamette
Watershed Hydrology
The Coast Fork Willamette watershed covers approximately 1,548 square miles in western Oregon. Its hydrology is dominated by the Coast Fork Willamette River, which flows 73 miles from its origin in the Cascade Mountains to its confluence with the Middle Fork Willamette River. Snowpack in the watershed varies depending on elevation, with the highest elevations receiving the most snow. Surface water in the watershed is influenced by seasonal precipitation and snowmelt. There are several reservoirs in the watershed, including Dorena Reservoir, Cottage Grove Reservoir, and Lookout Point Reservoir. Water quality in the watershed is generally good, with some areas experiencing issues related to agricultural runoff and mercury contamination. Interesting climatic facts include the region's mild, wet winters and dry summers, as well as its occasional snow and ice events. There are some trends towards increased winter precipitation and earlier snowmelt in the watershed.