The annual precipitation varies from 32 inches in the western part to 34 inches in the eastern part of the basin. Approximately 72 percent of this precipitation falls between April and September. In an average year snowfall varies between 10 and 15 inches. The average temperature varies from 32 degrees in the winter to about 79 degrees in the summer. The economy is based primarily on agriculture and general manufacturing.
Major crops grown include wheat, grain sorghum and soybeans.
In addition, the production of beef cattle is a significant part of the area's agricultural economy. The production and refining of oil and gas is a significant component of the area economy. Significant water management entitles in the basin include the conservation districts in Butler and Cowley counties and eight watershed districts which cover approximately 95 percent of the land area of the basin. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers responsible for the operation of El Dorado Lake, is another important water manager in the basin.