Watershed data flow to state and local forest and water management decisions

Through a partnership with North Carolina State University, NC Forest Service, and NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, USDA Forest Service scientists worked to improve hydrology knowledge in managed and unmanaged forested watersheds in the piedmont region of the southern U.S. This effort resulted in important discoveries in streamside management zones (SMZs), forest hydrology, and water quality.

The researchers found that significant tree blowdown occurred in the SMZ, and forests play a more significant role in affecting hydrology and water quality in this region than in the coastal plains or mountains. Results were shared with state and local resource managers during meetings, watershed tours, and field demonstrations. Managers recognized the value of the work, and the data were used to refine statewide Forestry Best Management Practices guidelines in NC; to parametrize and validate a watershed model to simulate flows, nutrients, and carbon loading to Falls Lake, the drinking water supply reservoir for Raleigh, NC; and to offer guidance on the benefits of maintaining evapotranspiration in urbanized watersheds. Municipal stormwater leaders and consultants from the NC Green Stormwater Infrastructure group will use these results to protect water quality in rural lands and in urban forests.