Choptank

Watershed Hydrology

The Choptank Watershed is located in Maryland and covers an area of 1,507 square miles. It is drained by the Choptank River and its tributaries, which are heavily influenced by agriculture. The watershed's hydrology is characterized by moderate to high flows during winter and spring, and low flows during summer and fall. Snowpack in the area is generally light due to its proximity to the coast. Surface water in the watershed is impacted by nutrient pollution, sedimentation, and bacterial contamination, largely from agricultural runoff. There are also several reservoirs in the watershed that provide drinking water for nearby communities. Climatic trends in the watershed show an overall increase in temperature and precipitation over the past century, with more extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall and flooding becoming more common. The watershed is also experiencing sea level rise, which could exacerbate flooding and saltwater intrusion in coastal areas.


Surface Flows

Choptank Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Choptank Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Choptank Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Choptank Watershed

Choptank Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed