Pennsylvania encompasses portions of five significant river basins, collectively covering nearly the entire state.
Pennsylvania's Major River Basins
Pennsylvania's unique geographical position makes it a crucial watershed for several major hydrological systems in the eastern United States. The state's landscape is shaped by the presence of these extensive river basins, each contributing to its diverse ecosystems and water resources.
The Five Major Basins
The major river basins that include portions of Pennsylvania are:
| Major River Basin |
|---|
| Susquehanna |
| Ohio |
| Delaware |
| Potomac |
| Great Lakes |
These basins are not isolated entities but are integral parts of larger regional hydrological networks that extend beyond Pennsylvania's borders.
Geographic Coverage and Importance
These five major river basins are vital to the state's natural environment and human activities.
- Together, the Susquehanna, Ohio, Delaware, Potomac, and Great Lakes basins cover nearly the entire state of Pennsylvania.
- While they account for the vast majority of Pennsylvania's land area, it is important to note that they do not cover all of it, indicating minor areas may fall into smaller, less prominent drainage systems or direct coastal drainages.
- These basins are crucial for water supply, agriculture, industry, recreation, and maintaining biodiversity across Pennsylvania.
