Lower Rappahannock

Watershed Hydrology

The Lower Rappahannock Watershed (HUC 02080104) spans over 3,200 square miles in eastern Virginia and includes parts of the Rappahannock River and its tributaries. The hydrology of the watershed is influenced by its location within the Chesapeake Bay watershed, with approximately 60% of the precipitation flowing into the Bay. The watershed also experiences seasonal changes, including snowfall in the winter months. The surface water in the watershed is used for drinking water, recreation, and irrigation purposes. Reservoir constituents include pollutants from agricultural and urban runoff, as well as sedimentation. Interesting climatic facts and trends include an increase in average annual temperature and precipitation over the past century, with potential impacts on water quality and aquatic species. The watershed is also vulnerable to sea level rise and storm surge due to its low elevation and proximity to the coast.


Surface Flows

Lower Rappahannock Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Lower Rappahannock Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Lower Rappahannock Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Lower Rappahannock Watershed

Lower Rappahannock Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed