The East Central Louisiana Coastal Watershed covers an area of approximately 4,172 square miles and is located in south-central Louisiana. The watershed is predominantly flat with low-lying terrain and extensive wetlands, which make up approximately 29% of the land area. The hydrology of the watershed is dominated by the Mississippi River and its tributaries, which provide a constant source of water for the region. However, the area does not receive significant snowfall, and snowpack is not a significant factor in the hydrology of the watershed. The primary surface water bodies in the watershed include Lake Pontchartrain, the Maurepas Swamp, and numerous smaller streams and bayous. The reservoir constituents vary depending on location, but many water bodies in the watershed have issues with nutrient pollution and sedimentation. The area is prone to severe weather events, including hurricanes, which have increased in frequency and intensity in recent years due to climate change.