Virginia Watersheds

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 is the largest major watershed in Virginia?

Back

The Chesapeake Bay watershed.

Front

What is brackish water?

Back

Brackish water is a mix of salty and fresh water, typically found in estuaries.

Front

What are tributaries?

Back

Tributaries are smaller rivers, creeks, and streams that flow into a larger river.

Front

What are wetlands?

Back

Wetlands are areas where water covers the soil, either permanently or seasonally, and include marshes, swamps, and bogs.

Front

Which of the following is NOT a wetland?

Back

Prairies.

Front

What is an estuary?

Back

An estuary is a coastal area where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean.

Front

What is the significance of the Chesapeake Bay?

Back

The Chesapeake Bay is important for its biodiversity, providing habitat for many species, and it is a major economic resource for fishing and tourism.

Front

What role do wetlands play in the environment?

Back

Wetlands help filter pollutants, provide habitat for wildlife, and act as natural flood control.

Front

What is the difference between a river and a watershed?

Back

A river is a flowing body of water, while a watershed is the land area that drains into that river.