ABSTRACT
Watershed planning uses watersheds and subwatersheds as the biophysical basis for planning and management. The classic definition of a watershed, “an area of land that drains to a common point,” explains the ultimate purpose and role of a watershed. They are based on using the hydrologic cycle as the pathway that integrates physical, chemical, and biological processes of the watershed. Watersheds give a fundamental unit with real boundaries of ecological significance that in turn provide a quantitative reference to examine issues such as ecological stress, the cumulative effects of landuse development, and other matters. When using watersheds as a basis for management, decision makers must be aware of many important hydrologic considerations. Because so much has been written about these considerations, this chapter presents only a brief overview. It is not comprehensive but rather a guide outlining considerations for developing and implementing a watershed management plan. Additional resource material for further information is provided at the end of the chapter.
