Brodhead Watershed  Drainage Area: 312 square miles  Monroe County, PA
	Brodhead Watershed Protecting Water Supplies The key to protecting both surface and ground water sources from pollution is to recognize that most threats to water quality are man-made. Therefore with careful planning most impacts can be lessened. Certainly it is key for government officials and leaders at the federal, state and local levels to see the need to protect watersheds, like the Brodhead watershed. Whether the problem comes from agricultural uses, golf courses, industrial or commercial uses, residential properties or recreational areas, good management techniques in site design, soil erosion control methods, fertilizer and pesticide applications and replanting programs can minimize the impact of these activities. Better design in roadway and parking lot drainage systems can help minimize the impact of salt, petroleum products run-off and sediments as well as other the addition of litter to surface water sources. Permitted discharges (also called point sources) need to be carefully monitored and well-managed to produce the highest quality effluent possible in order to allow the surface water bodies to assimilate the discharges. Watershed and wellhead protection programs which are regionally developed and incorporated into local planning and zoning ordinances would be a considerable step forward in protecting the drinking water sources in the Brodhead watershed. Planting buffers 50'-100' wide between land use activities and surface water boundaries (stream banks, etc.) would add a considerable measure of protection to these waters. Lastly and most importantly is education, so that the average person living in the Brodhead watershed knows and understands his/her role in helping to keep these waters clean and clear; so that future generations can enjoy this critically important natural resource.
This site is developed and maintained by the Brodhead Watershed Association. Have any questions? We'd be glad to help.