Physically, a watershed is the area of land from which rainfall collects in a single lake, river, aquifier or sea.  People rely on watersheds for their water supply, to drain floodwaters and to wash away wastes.  In addition, ecosystems rely on watersheds for water supply, and aquatic wildlife rely on them for a place to live.

Watershed management means considering the benefits a watershed can provide, such as a source of clean water for drinking and agriculture as well as the problems related to water and its use, such as flooding and pollution.  Watershed management planning is being undertaken by most local government agencies to balance these issues.

For more information about UC Cooperative Extension's watershed education program, Watershed U., please click here:  Watershed U.

For a guide to resources related to watershed management from a variety of local, state, and federal agencies and organizations, please click here:  A Toolbox for Watershed Management

Santa Clara River Watershed Times (newsletter)