North Branch Potomac
Watershed Hydrology
The North Branch Potomac watershed (HUC 02070002) covers approximately 3,832 square miles in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. The hydrology of the watershed is primarily influenced by precipitation and snowmelt, with the North Branch Potomac River serving as the main surface water feature. Snowpack in the watershed varies depending on elevation, with higher elevations experiencing more snow accumulation. The watershed contains several reservoirs, including the Jennings Randolph Lake and the Savage River Reservoir. Reservoir constituents include recreational activities such as fishing and boating. The watershed experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cold winters. Recent trends show an increase in precipitation and temperature, leading to potential impacts on water quality and quantity. The North Branch Potomac watershed is an important ecological and recreational resource for the region.