Altamaha
Watershed Hydrology
The Altamaha Watershed, located in Georgia, encompasses approximately 14,000 square miles of land area and is home to the largest river basin east of the Mississippi River. The watershed is known for its diverse hydrology, with swamps, marshes, and wetlands contributing to its unique character. The area does not experience significant snowfall, and surface water is primarily sourced from precipitation and runoff from surrounding land. Reservoirs in the watershed contain constituents such as sediment and nutrients that can contribute to harmful algal blooms. Interesting climatic facts include the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall and drought, in the region. Additionally, the Altamaha Watershed is home to several endangered species, including the Altamaha spinymussel and the Atlantic sturgeon, which are sensitive to changes in water quality and quantity. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these species and maintain the ecological health of the watershed.