The Lower New Watershed spans over 6,000 square miles in West Virginia and Virginia. It is characterized by its steep slopes and narrow valleys, which contribute to its fast-flowing streams and frequent flooding events. The watershed's hydrology is heavily influenced by precipitation and snowmelt, with winter snowpack accumulating in higher elevations before melting in the spring and providing a significant amount of surface water. The area is also home to several reservoirs, including Bluestone Lake and Summersville Lake, which serve as important sources of hydroelectric power and recreational opportunities. Notably, the Lower New Watershed experiences some of the most extreme climate conditions in the eastern United States, with high temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer and heavy snowfall in the winter. Climate change has also led to more frequent and intense weather events, including flooding and droughts.