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Popo Agie Watershed: Water Uses
The Popo Agie Watershed has a rich and diversified community, and is able to put it's precious water resource to a variety of beneficial uses.
Domestic Water Uses
There are two communities within the Popo Agie Watershed that derive their
municipal water supplies from the Popo Agie River and related sources.
The City of Lander utilizes streamflow from the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River and Worthen Meadow Reservoir, which is the primary municipal storage facility. The water supply is carefully treated to meet health and safety standards at the water treatment facility near Sinks Canyon. After use, the water is once again treated at the waste water treatment facility to remove bacteria and other potential contaminants, and is returned to the Middle Fork of the Popo Agie River downstream from the city.
The Town of Hudson also receives their municipal water supply from the Popo Agie River system through groundwater wells. Waste-water is treated at a small facility and returned to the Popo Agie River.
Agriculture
Agriculture dominates water usage in the Popo Agie Watershed with
an estimated 96% of the basin’s total use. Crops produced as a
result of irrigation include alfalfa, wheat, oats, and irrigated pasture
for livestock. Agricultural producers increase irrigation efficiency
through the use of gated pipe, side roll
and center pivot sprinkler systems and a variety
of other improvements.
Wildlife
Wildlife resources in the Popo Agie Watershed
are dependent upon the available water resources of the Popo
Agie Watershed. Abundant populations of deer, elk, and
antelope populate the area as well as countless resident and
migratory birds. Common fish species in the Popo Agie
Watershed are brook trout, rainbow trout, brown trout,
mountain sucker and white sucker. Rarer species include sauger,
Yellowstone cutthroat trout, and golden trout.
Recreation
Recreational opportunities abound in the Popo Agie Watershed,
and many focus on our scenic rivers and the amenities they provide.
Visitors and residents alike enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities
including outstanding trout fishing, scenic hiking trails, boating,
rock climbing, hunting, camping, and winter prospects like cross-country
skiing and snowmobiling.