Watershed + MN Climate Vocabulary

1. Watershed
A watershed is an area of land where all the rain and water flow into a common body of water, like a river, lake, or ocean.

2. Topographic map
A topographic map shows the shapes and features of the land, like mountains, valleys, and water sources, often using lines to represent changes in elevation.

3. Impervious Surface
An impervious surface is something that water cannot pass through, like concrete, asphalt, or buildings. These surfaces cause water to run off instead of soaking into the ground.

4. Percolation
Percolation is the process of water moving down through the soil or ground, slowly filtering through layers until it reaches deeper areas.

5. Runoff
Runoff is water that flows over the ground, often after a rainstorm, because it cannot soak into the soil or is blocked by impervious surfaces.

6. Storm water
Storm water is the water from rain or snow that runs off streets, roofs, and other surfaces, often carrying pollutants.

7. Storm drain
A storm drain is a system of pipes or channels that carry storm water away from streets and buildings, preventing flooding.

8. Demonstration
A demonstration is an action or event where someone shows how something works or teaches others by example.

9. Pollution / Pollutants
Pollution refers to harmful substances that damage the environment. Pollutants are the specific harmful substances, like chemicals or trash, that cause pollution.

10. Salt / Chloride
Salt or chloride is a substance often used to melt ice on roads in winter, but it can be harmful to plants and animals when it washes into water sources.

11. Leaves
Leaves are the green parts of plants or trees that grow on branches. They help the plant take in sunlight and air.

12. Animal waste
Animal waste refers to the excrement (feces) from animals, which can pollute water if it enters rivers or lakes.

13. Gas / Oil
Gas and oil are types of fuel that are used in cars, machines, and homes. They can harm the environment if spilled or leaked into water sources.

14. Fertilizer
Fertilizer is a substance added to soil to help plants grow better, but it can pollute water if too much is used or if it washes away during rain.

15. Litter
Litter refers to trash or waste that is carelessly discarded on the ground, often causing pollution in parks, streets, or natural areas.

16. Phosphorus
Phosphorus is a chemical element found in fertilizers and animal waste. It can cause water pollution and the growth of harmful algae in lakes or rivers.

17. Algae
Algae are small plants that grow in water. Sometimes, too much algae grows because of pollution, creating problems for the water and animals living there.

18. Rain garden
A rain garden is a garden designed to absorb rainwater and prevent runoff, often using plants that help filter the water.

19. Native plant
A native plant is a plant that naturally grows in a specific area, without being brought there by people. These plants are adapted to the local environment.

20. Roots
Roots are the underground parts of plants that take in water and nutrients from the soil. They also help hold the plant in place.

21. Filtering / Infiltration
Filtering is the process of removing impurities from water, while infiltration refers to water soaking into the ground through soil.

22. Pollinators
Pollinators are animals (like bees, butterflies, and birds) that help plants reproduce by carrying pollen from one flower to another.