The Middle James Watershed (HUC 10160006) in Virginia covers an area of approximately 10,000 square miles. The watershed is predominantly forested and contains several major rivers and tributaries, including the James River, the Cowpasture River, and the Jackson River. The hydrology of the watershed is influenced by the Appalachian Mountains, which run through the western portion of the watershed. The mountains help to control water flow, and snowpack in the mountains provides a significant source of water for the rivers and streams in the watershed. During the winter, snowfall in the mountains can accumulate to significant depths, and this snowpack will melt in the spring, providing a vital source of water for the ecosystem. The surface water in the watershed is of high quality and supports a diverse range of aquatic life. The watershed contains several reservoirs, including the Gathright Dam, which provides hydroelectric power and serves as a source of drinking water for the area. Some interesting climatic facts include the average annual precipitation of 43 inches and a temperature range of 30-90 degrees Fahrenheit. There is a trend of increasing temperatures and decreasing snowpack in the watershed in recent years.