The Upper Tallapoosa Watershed covers approximately 1,289 square miles in Alabama and Georgia. It is a vital source of drinking water for several municipalities and supports various recreational activities such as fishing and boating. The hydrology of the watershed is primarily controlled by the Tallapoosa River, which originates in the Appalachian Mountains and flows through Alabama and Georgia. The area receives an average of 55 inches of precipitation annually, with snowfall occurring occasionally in the higher elevations. The surface water quality in the watershed is generally good, but some parts are affected by agricultural and urban runoff. Reservoirs in the watershed, such as Lake Martin and Lake Wedowee, provide hydroelectric power and recreational opportunities. Recent climatic trends include an increase in average temperatures and a decrease in annual precipitation, leading to concerns about drought and water availability in the region.