4.6 Watersheds

Watershed

The land that drains into a specific body of water (river, lake, bay, etc.).

Slope

The incline of land that divides watersheds and affects runoff directions.

Vegetation's Role in Infiltration

More vegetation creates more space due to roots, leading to increased infiltration and groundwater recharge.

Runoff Velocity

Greater slope leads to faster runoff velocity and increased soil erosion.

Soil Permeability

A factor that influences the rates of runoff versus infiltration.

Eutrophication

Process caused by nutrient pollution (N & P) leading to algal blooms and hypoxia in water bodies.

Chesapeake Bay

A watershed that drains into streams/rivers, creating productive estuary habitats due to mixed fresh and saltwater.

Ecosystem Services of Estuaries

Increased tourism revenue, water filtration, food source habitats, and storm protection.

Buffer Strips

Vegetation areas along streams designed to filter pollutants and reduce watershed impacts.