Watershed Concepts and Water Stewardship

Kristine Maurer, a senior natural resource ecologist, explains the concept of watersheds, their sizes, and how they function. She discusses the importance of watershed boundaries and topography in water flow. The video highlights local watershed features at Voyageur Environmental Center and emphasizes the significance of protecting water resources through various actions to prevent pollution.

What is a watershed?

• A type of ecosystem found in deserts

• A man-made structure for water management

• An area of land that drains into a water body

• A type of water storage facility

Which of the following is an example of a large watershed?

• A local park

• A small creek

• A backyard pond

• The Mississippi River basin

How does water from a small sedge meadow reach larger water bodies?

• It is transported by animals

• It seeps overland and through the ground to creeks

• It is absorbed by plants and never reaches larger bodies

• It evaporates directly into the atmosphere

What determines the boundaries of a watershed?

• The temperature of the region

• The amount of rainfall in the area

• The topography and elevation of the land

• The type of vegetation present

What is the Continental Divide?

• A type of river found in North America

• A political boundary between countries

• A topographic feature dividing water flow directions

• A mountain range in Europe

Which watershed does water flow into from the east side of the ridge at Voyageur Environmental Center?

• Pioneer Sarah Creek Watershed

• Mississippi River Watershed

• Minnehaha Creek Watershed

• Dutch Lake Watershed

Why is it important to consider how water flows?

• To reduce the amount of water in rivers

• To increase the speed of water flow

• To protect water resources for fish, beavers, and humans

• To ensure water is always available for swimming

Which of the following is a way to prevent water pollution?

• Ignoring pet waste

• Leaving lawn clippings in storm drains

• Capturing rainwater in a rain barrel

• Using more salt in winter

What is one action you can take to be a good water steward?

• Install a rain garden

• Cut down all trees near water bodies

• Build more roads near rivers

• Increase the use of chemical fertilizers

Where can you find more information about watersheds?

• In a novel

• In a travel guide

• In a cooking book

• In the story map references