The Middle Arkansas Slate Watershed covers about 1,031 square miles in central Arkansas, and includes parts of Garland, Montgomery, Pike, and Polk counties. The watershed is primarily forested, with some agriculture and urban areas. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the Ouachita Mountains, which provide a source of surface water and groundwater recharge. The watershed also has several small reservoirs, including Lake Ouachita. Snowfall is generally rare in this area, with little to no accumulation most winters. Surface water quality in the watershed is generally good, with low levels of pollutants. However, there are some areas of concern, including sedimentation and nutrient runoff from agricultural areas. Climate data shows a trend of increasing temperatures and decreasing rainfall in the watershed over the past few decades. This may have implications for water availability and quality in the future. Overall, the Middle Arkansas Slate Watershed is an important source of water and habitat for plants and animals in central Arkansas.