The Lower Kanawha Watershed (HUC 05050008) covers an area of approximately 5,220 square miles in West Virginia. The watershed is characterized by a humid continental climate, with average annual precipitation ranging from 40-50 inches. The hydrology of the region is dominated by the Kanawha River, which flows through the center of the watershed and is fed by numerous smaller streams and tributaries. The region does not typically experience significant snowpack, with average snowfall amounts of around 20 inches per year. Surface water quality in the watershed is impacted by agricultural runoff and urbanization, with high levels of sediment and nutrients present in many of the streams and rivers. There are several reservoirs in the watershed, including the Sutton Lake and Summersville Lake, which are used for hydroelectric power generation and recreation. Interesting climatic facts and trends in the region include increasing average annual temperatures and more frequent and severe precipitation events.