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The Watershed
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Ecosystems, like the Blue Mountain Watershed, are complex entities that have developed their integrated nature over the course of hundreds and thousands of years. They are maintained through natural processes and cycles. |
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This page contains a number of materials on the Blue Mountain Watershed, its rivers, forests, flora and fauna. As well, general information is available on the inner workings of watersheds. Follow the links below to continue. |
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What Is a Watershed?
Watersheds rely on natural processes such as the hydrologic cycle to maintain a natural balance.
The Hydrologic Cycle
The hydrologic cycle is the process by which water moves through the ecosystem. After water falls to the ground,
some of it percolates through the soil and into the water table, or aquifer. Eventually, it makes its way into streams where it flows to larger bodies of water, rivers, lakes and oceans.
At the same time, other water is absorbed by vegetation where it helps plants to grow and contributes to the overall process of photosynthesis. This water then makes its way back into the atmosphere through a process known as evapotranspiration.where it enters the atmosphere and eventually condenses into clouds, at which point the process continues.
Problems Facing Watersheds
The Blue Mountain Watershed
The Blue Mountain Watershed is a vibrant ecological community containing a number of rivers and waterways, greenways, slope and cliff areas, agricultural zones, forested areas, and a diverse array of habitat, including fish, amphibians, birds and mammals. It also contains a number of areas of human habitation, including several small towns, sub-divisions and some larger urban areas.
The links below detail information on some of what you might find in the watershed. These various plants, animals, and habitats act together in an ecological manner that contributes to the overall functioning and vitality of the watershed. As an ecologist once said, "everything connects to everything else!"
Please visit our map and photo gallery for perusal at your leisure. (coming soon!)
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