A watershed is an area of land that drains runoff into a common body of water, such as streams, rivers, lakes, or oceans. Watersheds are the land that water travels over or under to the lowest point within an area. Our watershed, the Middle Fork Crow River Watershed,  is located in central Minnesota within the counties of Kandiyohi, Pope, Meeker, and Stearns. The MFCRWD drains roughly 271 square miles! 

Watersheds are so important because of their impact upon water suply, biodiversity, recreation, flood control, and economic benefits:

• Watersheds are a source of water. They collect and store precipitation, which travels to streams, rivers, and aquifers to supply our homes with water. 
• Watersheds promote biodiveristy by providing a home for a wide range of plants and animals that rely on water for survival. Wetlands also filter pollutants from the water!
• Watersheds provide recreational opportunities. By protecting them, we can ensure recreational activities for future generations. 
• Rain is typically absorbed within watersheds through soil or vegetations. This can be used to reduce the risk of flooding. 
• Watersheds provide economic benefits through industries such as hydroelectric power generation, forestry, and agriculure.