The Lower Cape Fear Watershed spans over 6,000 square miles in southeastern North Carolina. Its hydrology is characterized by numerous streams and rivers, including the Cape Fear River, which flows over 200 miles from the Piedmont region to the Atlantic Ocean. The area experiences mild winters, with occasional snowfall in some parts. Surface water in the watershed is highly impacted by human activities, including agricultural runoff and industrial discharge. The Lower Cape Fear River is also a source of drinking water for several communities, but it is at risk of contamination from nutrient and sediment loads. Reservoirs within the watershed contain high levels of nutrients, which can lead to algal blooms and fish kills. The region is also vulnerable to flooding, with Hurricane Florence causing significant damage in 2018. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these issues, with more frequent and intense storms and rising sea levels.