Watersheds: Virginia

Front

What is a watershed?

Back

A watershed is an area of land where all the water that falls on it drains into a common body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean.

Front

What are wetlands?

Back

Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil, either permanently or seasonally, and they support aquatic plants and wildlife.

Front

What is brackish water?

Back

Brackish water is a mixture of freshwater and saltwater, typically found in estuaries.

Front

What role do wetlands play in flood control?

Back

Wetlands store floodwaters, helping to reduce the impact of flooding in surrounding areas.

Front

What is the Chesapeake Bay Watershed?

Back

The Chesapeake Bay Watershed is the area of land that drains into the Chesapeake Bay, including parts of six states and the District of Columbia.

Front

Which states are included in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed?

Back

Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware, West Virginia, and New York.

Front

What is the significance of wetlands for wildlife?

Back

Wetlands provide habitats and food for many animals, supporting biodiversity.

Front

How do wetlands improve water quality?

Back

Wetlands trap excess nutrients and pollutants, filtering water before it enters larger bodies of water.

Front

What is the difference between freshwater and saltwater?

Back

Freshwater has low salt concentration, while saltwater has a high salt concentration, typically found in oceans.

Front

What is runoff?

Back

Runoff is water that flows over the ground surface and into bodies of water, often carrying pollutants.