Loudoun Watershed Watch - Overseeing the Water Resources of Loudoun County, VA


Loudoun Watershed Watch Overseeing the Water Resources of Loudoun County, VA
	Watershed Basics Let's start basic: What is a watershed? A watershed is an area of land that drains into a lake or river. As rainwater and melting snow run downhill, they carry sediment and other materials into our streams, lakes, wetlands and groundwater.
	Why is your watershed important? We all live in a watershed. Watersheds are the places we call home, where we work and where we play. Everyone relies on water and other natural resources to exist. How you and others treat the land along streams have impacts on the quality and quantity of water and our stream resources.	Looking for aquatic organisms
	Protecting Water Resources -- Healthy watersheds are very important for a healthy environment and the economy. Our watersheds provide water for drinking, irrigation and industry. Many people also enjoy lakes and streams for their scenic beauty and for recreation such as boating, fishing and swimming. Wildlife also need healthy watersheds for food and shelter. Scientists and leaders now recognize the best way to protect a local stream is to understand and manage the entire watershed in which the stream is located. Everything that is done in a watershed affects other portions of the watershed system.
	Pollutants and Water Quality -- In the past, most water quality problems were caused by point-source pollution. This means the problem was from a specific location such as a pipe or disposal site. Much progress has been made in cleaning up water quality problems from point sources. Sewage treatments plants provide good treatment and storm sewers don't overflow with sewage.	Fish found in Sugarland Run
	Nonpoint Pollution -- Water quality problems from nonpoint-source pollution are more difficult solve. Nonpoint-source pollutants are in the water that runs off pasture, crop or forest land. Other nonpoint sources include failing septic systems, parking lots, construction sites, irrigation systems and drainage systems. These sources are often hard to identify and difficult to measure. There are few laws controlling this type of pollution, and citizens need to take voluntary action. A partnership among all who live, work or play in the watershed can help identify concerns, educate those involved and encourage them to take action. Understanding your watershed is the first step in protecting the water and other natural resources.	High school students studying a stream
	Understanding your watershed -- The watershed where you live is a dynamic and unique place. It is a complex web of natural resources - soil, water, air, plants and animals. Yet, everyday activities can impact these resources, ultimately impacting our well-being and economic livelihood. The EPA has a lot more information that can help you understand watersheds.	Aquatic insect sample
info@loudounwatershedwatch.org Copyright © 2011 Loudoun Watershed Watch