Gunpowder-Patapsco

Watershed Hydrology

The Gunpowder-Patapsco watershed covers a land area of approximately 1,333 square miles in Maryland. The watershed is characterized by a diverse landscape of forested uplands, wetlands, agricultural lands, and urban areas. The hydrology of the watershed is heavily influenced by precipitation, with average annual rainfall ranging from 40-60 inches. Specific snowpack is variable year to year, but the watershed typically receives around 20-30 inches of snowfall annually. Surface water in the watershed is important for both recreational and ecological purposes, with popular activities including fishing, boating, and swimming. Reservoirs in the watershed provide drinking water for Baltimore City and surrounding areas. Interesting climatic facts and trends include increasing temperatures and changing precipitation patterns, with more frequent extreme weather events such as heavy rainfalls and drought. These changes pose potential risks to the water quality and availability in the watershed.


Surface Flows

Gunpowder-Patapsco Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Gunpowder-Patapsco Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Gunpowder-Patapsco Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Gunpowder-Patapsco Watershed

Gunpowder-Patapsco Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed