Bayou Teche
Watershed Hydrology
The Bayou Teche Watershed covers approximately 2,870 square miles in south-central Louisiana. It is a primarily agricultural area that is heavily reliant on surface water for irrigation. The watershed is characterized by a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. The area experiences occasional flooding due to its low-lying topography and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. Large reservoirs, such as Lake Fausse Pointe and Lake Dauterive, serve as important components of the watershed's hydrology. The watershed is also known for its unique snowpack, which is typically composed of sleet and freezing rain rather than traditional snow. Significant efforts have been made to improve water quality in the Bayou Teche and its tributaries, including the implementation of best management practices for agriculture and wastewater treatment upgrades.