What is a watershed?
Quick Answer
A watershed is an area of land where all water drains to a common outlet, such as a river, lake, or ocean. It can also mean the dividing line between drainage basins.
The Full Story
A watershed is the land area that collects precipitation and channels it into a shared waterway. Rain that falls within the watershed may flow into streams, rivers, wetlands, and eventually an ocean or inland lake. Watersheds are important for managing water quality, flooding, and ecosystems because what happens on the land affects the water downstream. The Mississippi River Basin, for example, is one of the largest watersheds in North America. Scientists and planners use watershed boundaries to understand water movement across landscapes.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"Every raindrop has a destination—watersheds decide where it goes."