Watersheds

Front

What is a watershed?

Back

A watershed is an area of land that drains to a particular lake, wetland, or stream.

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How do watersheds fit together?

Back

Watersheds are different sizes, and they are nested within each other.

Front

What is eutrophication?

Back

Eutrophication is the rapid increase in nutrients in an environment, often leading to excessive growth of algae.

Front

What happens in a developed watershed during heavy precipitation?

Back

When more precipitation flows across the landscape than soaks into the ground, it can cause flooding.

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What is a nonpoint source of pollution?

Back

A nonpoint source of pollution is a source that cannot be easily identified, such as oil and pesticides from runoff.

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What is a point source of pollution?

Back

A point source of pollution is a single, identifiable source of pollution, such as a pipe discharging waste into a river.

Front

What role do watersheds play in the water cycle?

Back

Watersheds collect precipitation, store water, and facilitate its movement to rivers, lakes, and oceans.

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What is the significance of watershed management?

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Watershed management is important for maintaining water quality, preventing flooding, and protecting ecosystems.

Front

How can urban development impact watersheds?

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Urban development can increase runoff, reduce infiltration, and lead to pollution and flooding.

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What is sedimentation in the context of watersheds?

Back

Sedimentation is the process by which soil and other particles are carried into water bodies, often affecting water quality.