A watershed is an area of land where all water travels to the lowest point - a river, stream or lake. Water slides down the sides of the area from the highest point to the bottom of the watershed, like rain falling in a large bowl or basin. On its way, the water travels over the land, across fields, forest, lawns and city streets. A portion of this water seeps into the soil and travels under ground (called ground water). The portion that stays above ground is what most concerns us when we talk about stormwater, especially when this water flows over impervious surfaces such as roof tops and driveways. It is this water that collects and transports debris, chemicals, sediment and pathogens. When these things enter our waterways, they have a lasting effect on both human and environmental health.
To see if you live in an impaired watershed, browse the map below.
You may also click below for a static version of this map.