The above pictures show the area of the Blackstone Valley watershed,
as well as an indicator of the seriousness of the problems in the area.
While this area is not currently in significant danger, there are certain
issues that should be investigated in order to prevent troubles from escalating.
Currently, the ability to use the water in the river is becoming a more
serious problem. Additionally, fish and wildlife consumption is becoming
more serious, as is the loss of wetlands. These problems, if escalated,
could influence the surrounding area negatively. Additionally, vulnerability
indicators include urban road run-off and population growth.
Watershed- an area that collects run off area from adjacent land, or an area that accumulates run-off from an adjacent land. Also called a drainage basin.
Condition Indicators- are designed to show existing watershed health across the country. These indicators include such things as waters meeting state or tribal designated uses, contaminated sediments, ambient water quality, and wetland loss.
Vulnerability Indicators-
are designed to indicate where pollution discharges and other activities
put pressure on the watershed. These could cause future problems to occur.
Activities in this category include such things as pollutant loads discharged
in excess of permitted levels, pollution, and changes in human population
levels.
