This report contains data collected for the Watonwan River Basin. The data is presented in both map and database forms. The database contains selected information for the Watonwan River Basin, including drainage and storage areas. Stream Subbasin and Stream flow gaging station locations are supplied by the map.

During the summers of 1978-1982 37 miles of the Minnesota River underwent a biological survey. This survey included both fish and insect species. The survey listed 53 species that comprised the fish community of the reaches studies by this project. Sampling of benthic invertebrates showed Hydropsychiae, Ephemoroptera and Chironomidae to be the major constituents of the benthic community. It was determined that agriculture, erosion, turbidity and nutrient levels are all factors which are detrimental to the native flora and fauna of the Minnesota River Valley.

The Chippewa River Watershed is located in West-Central Minnesota and drains approximately 2,080 square miles. The hydrologic atlas describing the characteristics of the watershed contains four sheets. These sheets describe the water cycle, ground water, water quality, and surface water of the drainage area.

The Department of Natural Resources saw the need for a study of the ground water availability in many areas of Minnesota. This was a result of severe droughts in the 1970's. These events demonstrated the need for drinking water supplies other than Minnesota's surface waters. The report contained maps of all the wells that existed, along with their depth to aquifer, topographic setting, well size and other information.