About the Watershed Institute

What is a watershed?

A watershed encompasses the forest, uplands, agricultural lands, streams, wetlands, roadways, and other areas delivering water into a drainage, and their living communities.

A healthy watershed: Prevents topsoil loss Provides habitats for wildlife and natural communities Filters toxic pollutants originating from citites and farms Recharges aquifers Reduces saltwater intrusion into aquifers Controls flooding Supports agricultural production Creates "greenbelts" in residential areas, which can also act as fire breaks.

Watershed Institute restorationists, researchers, and educators are currently working in watersheds around the world to apply a watershed systems management approach. The implementation of an ecosystem management approach is either mandated or supported by lead organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the California State Water Resouces Control Board. The Watershed Institute has already implemented some of these agencies' goals to convert the Monterey Bay region from a microcosm of watershed problems to a model for positive action.