Watershed Protection
Everyone lives in a watershed — an area of land that drains to a single body of water, such as a creek, a river, or a lake. However, watersheds are more than just drainage areas in and around our communities. They provide a number of critical functions such as supplying drinking water, supporting habitats for plants and animals, and providing opportunities for recreation and the enjoyment of nature.
Watersheds naturally direct water to certain regions — such as riparian zones — and having informed policy in place before building on a watershed can ensure a reduction in flooding impacts and pollutant loading, while also protecting land and water resources. Often, the most cost-effective method of mitigating flood loss and nonpoint source pollution involves using natural systems to retain what you have, restore what has been lost, and build only what you must.
A comprehensive watershed approach requires constant adjustments based on development patterns, population increases, changing land uses, the state of resources, and the institutional capacity of a community to manage its resources. The management practices listed below provide an overview of some strategies communities can adopt to better protect their water resources.
Guidance
Check out the resources below for more information about what you can do at home to protect the watersheds of our region.
Check out the resources below for more information on what your organization, city, or county can do to protect the watersheds of our region.