Watershed Characterization

This interactive web map was developed as an inventory of available data on landscape features, land uses, and activities.  This inventory includes information on the physical and natural features, land use, human and animal populations, permitted dischargers, utilities, and the regulatory status of waterways.  The geology and soils of this area are significant for the success of the thoroughbred and distillery industries that thrive in the area, but also for the way that water flows over and through the landscape and the types of pollutants they pick up along the way.  Urban areas may have potential for pollution from sanitary sewer overflows, lawn fertilization, or pet waste, while agricultural operations may have the potential for pollution from livestock manure or field fertilization. Natural areas may have inputs from wildlife or unique species that should be preserved. This characterization of the watershed features helps identify potential sources of pollution, natural features for protection, and the dynamics of water movement on and through the landscape.