Impacting Plymouth's Water Supply

Watershed Management

A watershed is an area of land that channels rainfall, snowmelt, and runoff into a common body of water. The term “watershed” is often used interchangeably with “drainage basin,” which may make the concept easier to visualize.The health of the Eel River watershed directly impacts the quality and availability of drinking water for every resident in Plymouth:

• Groundwater Recharge: Eel River contributes to the recharge of the Plymouth Carver Sole Source Aquifer, our vital source of drinking water for Plymouth and its surrounding communities. A healthy watershed allows for better infiltration of rainwater, replenishing the aquifer.
• Water Quality Protection : The condition of the Eel River watershed directly influences the quality of water that flows into Plymouth Harbor. A polluted Eel River can degrade the harbor's water quality.
• Ecosystem Health: The Eel River watershed supports a diverse ecosystem, including wetlands and forests. These natural areas act as natural filters, removing pollutants and improving water quality. A healthy watershed ecosystem helps maintain the overall health of Plymouth's water resources.