Watershed Maps

What is a Watershed Map?

We build 2D and 3D Watershed Maps

Table of Contents

Watershed Maps

Watershed maps may not seem like the most exciting thing in the world, but these powerful tools have the potential to revolutionize the way we manage and protect our planet’s most precious resource – water.  By revealing the complex networks of rivers, streams, and other waterways that make up our planet’s hydrological systems, watershed maps can help us understand how water moves through the landscape, where it comes from, and where it’s going.  Whether you’re a scientist, a policymaker, or simply someone who cares about the environment, watershed maps are an essential tool for safeguarding our water resources and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.

A watershed map is a geographical representation of the watershed areas of a particular region.  A watershed is a term used to describe the land area that drains water into a particular river or stream.  Watersheds can be small or large, and they are defined by the topography of the land.  The boundaries of a watershed are determined by the highest elevations or ridgelines that separate it from adjacent areas.  

The creation of watershed maps involves the collection and analysis of a variety of data.  The first step is to obtain topographic data, which is used to define the boundaries of the watershed.  Topographic data can be obtained from a variety of sources, including digital elevation models (DEMs) and contour maps.  Once the watershed boundaries have been defined, additional data can be collected and analyzed, including soil types, land cover, and land use.

One of the key benefits of watershed maps is their ability to provide insight into the potential impacts of land use changes on water resources.  For example, if a developer wants to build a new subdivision in a particular watershed, a watershed map can be used to determine how the development might impact the local water supply.  By analyzing factors such as soil type and land cover, it is possible to predict how much water will be absorbed by the ground and how much will run off into nearby streams and rivers.

In recent years, the development of digital mapping technologies has made it easier to create and analyze watershed maps.  Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software allows users to overlay multiple layers of data on a map, making it possible to analyze the relationships between different factors such as land use, soil type, and water quality.  These tools have greatly improved our ability to understand and manage watersheds, and they are being used by a wide range of organizations, including government agencies, environmental groups, and private companies. 

Watershed Map of the US
US Watershed Map

Watershed maps can be highly detailed and include various features that make them extremely important. 

  • Watershed boundaries:  These are the lines that define the outer limits of a particular watershed, indicating the area that drains into a given body of water.
  • Rivers and streams:  These features are shown on the map as lines that represent the direction and flow of water in the watershed.
  • Topography:  The contours of the land can be depicted using shading or lines, showing the elevation changes and slope of the land in the watershed.
  • Land use:  The type of land use in the watershed, such as urban, agricultural, or natural areas, can be depicted using symbols or colors.
  • Hydrologic features:  This can include wetlands, lakes, ponds, and other water-related features within the watershed.
  • Water quality data:  Water quality data such as measurements of pH, dissolved oxygen, and pollutants can be included to provide information about the health of the watershed.
  • Population density:  The density of people living in the watershed can be shown to help understand the potential impact of human activities on the water resources.
  • Infrastructure:  The location of roads, bridges, dams, and other infrastructure in the watershed can be shown to understand their impact on the water resources.
  • Conservation areas:  Areas designated for conservation or protected by law can be highlighted on the map.
  • Landmarks:  Landmarks such as mountains, forests, and other notable geographic features can be included to provide a sense of orientation and place in the watershed.

Sample Watershed Map of Carmel River Watershed

Sample 3D Watershed Maps

Here are some of the many uses of watershed maps:

  • Water Management:  Watershed maps are used by water managers to understand the quantity and quality of water in a given area.  By mapping the flow of water through a watershed, water managers can identify areas that are at risk for erosion and sedimentation, as well as areas where water quality is at risk.  This information can be used to develop strategies for managing water resources and protecting sensitive environments.
  • Flood Management:  Watershed maps are also used to identify areas that are at risk for flooding.  By mapping the flow of water through a watershed, engineers can identify areas where water is likely to accumulate and cause flooding.  This information can be used to develop strategies for mitigating the risk of flooding, such as building levees or developing floodplain management plans.
  • Land Use Planning:  Watershed maps are used by land use planners to understand the relationship between land use and water resources.  By mapping the flow of water through a watershed, planners can identify areas where land use practices, such as agriculture or development, may impact water resources.  This information can be used to develop land use plans that minimize the impact on water resources.
  • Environmental Protection:  Watershed maps are used by environmental groups to identify areas that are particularly sensitive to environmental degradation.  By mapping the flow of water through a watershed, environmental groups can identify areas that are important for wildlife habitat or that contain particularly sensitive ecosystems.  This information can be used to develop strategies for protecting these areas.
  • Recreation:  Watershed maps are also used by outdoor enthusiasts for recreational purposes.  By mapping the flow of water through a watershed, hikers, boaters, and other outdoor enthusiasts can identify areas that are particularly scenic or that offer opportunities for water-based recreation.

Watershed maps are a valuable tool for understanding and managing our water resources.  They provide insight into the potential impacts of land use changes, identify areas that are vulnerable to erosion and sedimentation, and help us develop strategies to protect sensitive environments.  As digital mapping technologies continue to evolve, watershed maps are likely to become even more powerful and useful tools for environmental management.

Our high-quality maps and models are on display at museums, national parks, university campuses, sports facilities, hospitals, and research organizations worldwide.  One of our more recent 3D topography projects was of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the surrounding area.  This large topography map covered over 1.2 million acres in a 91″ x 56″ frame.

We meld top-of-the-line technologies with professional cartography resources to create stunning historical topographical maps and models. Our expertise in 3D printing enables us to allow more markets to benefit from purchasing durable, portable, and affordable models.


Gallery of Custom 3D Map Projects

How Watershed Maps are Made

There are several techniques used to create watershed maps, and the process can vary depending on the scale and complexity of the map.  However, the basic steps involved in making a watershed map are as follows:

  1. Create a base map.  The first step in making a watershed map is to create a base map of the area. This can be done using imagery from a standard two-dimensional map, aerial photographs, or satellite images, or WhiteClouds can do it for you.  Water maps are available at the USGS Water Mapper website.
  2. Determine the design style of the map.  There are over 40 styles to choose from.   Popular ones include satellite, terrain, topography, raised relief, and satellite hybrid.
  3. Add any special design features not included in the source map, such as special features, landmarks, legends, roads, cities, symbols, etc.
  4. Add elevation data.  The next step is to add elevation data to the map. This can be done using a variety of techniques, such as contour lines, shading, or digital elevation models (DEMs).
  5. Print the Map Overlay.  Latex vinyl materials are used for the map details and colors.
  6. Create the 3D physical map.  Once the elevation data has been added to the map, a physical 3D structure is created that replicates the topography of the area.  This can be done using 3D printed plastic or thermoformed molding/casting.  Either approach is combined with the Vinyl overlay.
  7. Finish the map.  This is where any excess materials are cutaway.  Any special sealers, matte finishes, hardeners, or UV protection is applied.  Wood, metal or plastic bases are built and border flocking may be applied. 


Features & Benefits of Watershed Maps

  • Remarkably Strong:  You can drive a 1-ton truck over our watershed maps.
  • Precision:  We print our watershed maps to scale as accurately as are the original files and images.
  • Excitement:  It is much easier to get excited about 3D views of your ski runs or trails than flat printed maps.
  • Stain and Water Resistance:  Spills are easy to wipe up.
  • Communication:  Watershed maps are simple to understand with a quick glance.
  • Affordability:  Our 3D technologies allow you to order custom 3D maps for a reasonable price.
  • Testability:  3D technologies are affordable enough to test designs, such as several versions of planned work.
  • Consistency:  Using modern print and casting technologies, you can easily recreate identical 3D maps.
  • Portability:  We use lighter materials than what was available in the past, making our watershed maps easy to transport. 

Videos of 3D Maps

Map Design Styles of Watershed Maps

Many design styles, or base maps, serve as a starting point for your watershed map. We source and create our base maps using the same digital tools that expert cartographers use to create maps. Once you have selected your base map, everything else is fully customizable. We can layer informational text (such as landmarks or other points of interest) and even change the colors to suit your preferences.

Complex layers can be added such as streams and lakes, terrain, roads, and even more detail like political boundaries, religious, and other population-based demographics.  Multiple layers can also be added to the same watershed map. For example, community developers and city planners can benefit from a 3D map with layers that include parcel lines, existing building footprints, and utility lines. Take a look at the map style categories below for inspiration.

Technology and Materials Used in Watershed Maps

  • With 3D printing technology, you are not limited to straight lines and boxes. The curves and cliffs are captured accurately and beautifully in astonishing detail.
  • Your vision of the final 3D map determines which materials we will choose to produce the best results. We help you to determine the materials that best suit your project.
  • We use fabrication technologies such as 3D printing, CNC cutting, and molding/casting.
  • Watershed maps show incredible detail.
  • Our maps are printed in full color (with over 17 million variations of color) for awe-inspiring presentations and displays. No painting required!
  • Typically, we use a special process for finishing the sides of the raised relief maps in a suede-like material, similar to the finish of a jewelry box.
  • Our in-house paint booth gives us flexibility in different types and grades of paint and finishing capabilities; we can provide UV-resistant coatings to protect the coloration of your 3M map for many years.
  • We also offer customized additions to our 3D maps and models. Our in-house carpentry shop will build elegant bases, tables, or cabinetry to display any map you choose. Worried about dust? We can customize a case to protect your display as well. Our skilled artisans can hand-paint details to make your map a true work of art. 

WhiteClouds Marscapes: A Captivating Collection of 3D Raised Landscape Art for Home or Office Decor

Pricing of Custom Watershed Maps

The price of 3D maps and models are generally based on your size requirements, specific design needs, and the amount of work it will take to produce. Each map is custom-built and charged for accordingly. The best way to determine cost is to email us, call us at 385-206-8700, or fill out the form below and let us bid on your project.

Get a Free Price Estimate for a Custom Watershed Map

Custom Fabrication Workflow

Common Questions & Answers

  • What is the largest map you can fabricate?  There is no limit to the size of a map we can build.  There are practical limits that will impact shipping and installation, but we work closely with our customers on these special requirements.
  • What is a watershed map?  A watershed map is a type of map that shows the boundaries and features of a particular watershed, including the direction and flow of water.
  • What types of information can be shown on a watershed map?  A watershed map can show the boundaries of the watershed, the location of rivers and streams, topography, land use, and other features that affect the flow and quality of water in the watershed.
  • How can watershed maps be used to manage water resources?  Watershed maps can be used to identify areas where water quality is at risk and prioritize conservation and restoration efforts, as well as to assess the impacts of land-use changes on water resources.
  • Where can I find watershed maps? Watershed maps are often available from government agencies and organizations that focus on water resource management, such as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Geological Survey.  They may also be available from local conservation groups and watershed associations.  WhiteClouds can also help you design a custom watershed map.
  • What type of 3D maps can you fabricate?  All types.  Satellite Maps, Terrain MapsTopographical MapsRaised Relief MapsUSGS MapsContour Maps, and many more.
  • Can you fabricate with different technologies and materials?  Yes.  Our most common fabrication technology is 3D Printing, but we can also build 3D Maps with CNC Cutting, 3D Foam, Molding/Casting, Thermoforming, and Sculpting.
  • What materials can you 3D print in?  We match the correct material and fabrication process to your requirements in terms of presentation, size, and transportability.  We can 3D print in PLA, FDM, Full-Color Sandstone, UV-cured resin, plastic, rubber-like, acrylic, and nylon – as well as combining multiple technologies.
  • Can you sign a Non-disclosure Agreement that you supply?  Yes.
  • How long will it take to create my map?  That depends on the design and size of the map.  A more complex or detailed map will take longer than a simple map, we can’t really say exactly how long it will take until we have the chance to understand what type of map you want fabricated.  Generally, smaller standard maps can be a couple of weeks and large museum exhibition maps can be 6 months.
  • What do you need from me to start the map fabrication?  Boundaries are a good place to start.  Determining map styles, sizes, height (may be exaggerated), and cabinetry needs are all part of the process. Special design features can also be added.
  • Can you add homes, buildings, swimming pools, arbors, hardscaping features, etc.?  Yes.  We can 3D print many of these items and include them in our maps.  We refer to these more complex maps as architectural dioramas.
  • What is a watershed map? A watershed map is a visual representation of the boundaries of a drainage basin, which is an area of land that collects and channels precipitation and surface water to a common outlet, such as a river, lake, or ocean.  Watershed maps are important tools for understanding the natural water cycle, as well as for managing and protecting water resources.

    Watershed maps typically show the topography of the land, including the elevation of the land surface and the location of rivers, streams, and other water bodies.  They also depict the boundaries of the watershed, which are defined by the highest points on the landscape that drain to a common outlet.

    In addition to their scientific and environmental value, watershed maps are also used by a wide range of stakeholders, including government agencies, researchers, and community groups, for a variety of purposes, such as land use planning, water quality monitoring, and flood control.

  • What is a watershed?  A watershed is an area of land where all the water, including rainfall, snowmelt, and groundwater, flows into a common water body, such as a river, lake, or ocean.  Watersheds can vary in size, from a few acres to several thousand square miles, and are typically defined by the natural topography of the land.

    In a watershed, all the water that falls or runs onto the land eventually flows downhill, following the contours of the land and converging into a common stream or river.  The boundaries of a watershed are defined by the highest points on the landscape that drain to a common outlet, known as the “watershed divide”.

    Watersheds are important natural systems that play a critical role in the water cycle, as well as in the health of ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.  They provide water for drinking, irrigation, and industrial uses, support wildlife habitat, and help to regulate climate and weather patterns.

    However, watersheds are also vulnerable to pollution, development, and climate change, which can have negative impacts on water quality and quantity, as well as on the health and well-being of human and natural communities.  Therefore, it is important to manage and protect watersheds through effective conservation and land-use practices.

  • What do watershed maps show?  Watershed maps show the geographic boundaries and physical features of a drainage basin, which is an area of land that collects and channels precipitation and surface water to a common outlet, such as a river, lake, or ocean. These maps are important tools for understanding the natural water cycle, as well as for managing and protecting water resources.

    Watershed maps typically display the topography of the land, including the elevation of the land surface and the location of rivers, streams, and other water bodies.  They also depict the boundaries of the watershed, which are defined by the highest points on the landscape that drain to a common outlet.

    In addition to these basic features, watershed maps may also include other information, such as land use, soil types, water quality data, and infrastructure like dams and water treatment plants.  This information can be used to identify areas of concern and guide conservation and management efforts.

    Watershed maps are used by a variety of stakeholders, including government agencies, researchers, and community groups, for a range of purposes, such as land use planning, water quality monitoring, and flood control.  Overall, watershed maps are essential tools for understanding and managing water resources, and are critical for ensuring the sustainability and resilience of our natural systems.

  • How are watershed maps made?  Watershed maps are made using a variety of techniques and data sources, depending on the level of detail and accuracy required. In general, watershed maps are created by analyzing the topography of the land and identifying the boundaries of the drainage basin.

    One common method for creating a watershed map is to use digital elevation models (DEMs), which are computer-generated representations of the elevation of the land surface.  DEMs can be obtained from a variety of sources, including satellite data and aerial photography, and can be used to create detailed three-dimensional maps of the terrain.

    To create a watershed map, analysts use DEMs to identify the highest points on the landscape that drain to a common outlet. These points are known as “watershed divides,” and are typically identified using a technique known as flow accumulation analysis. This involves tracing the path of water as it flows downhill, from higher elevations to lower elevations, and identifying the points where the water converges into larger and larger streams and rivers.

    Once the watershed divides have been identified, they are used to create a boundary that encompasses all the land that drains to the common outlet.  This boundary can be refined using other data sources, such as soil maps and land use data, to provide a more detailed picture of the watershed.

    Overall, the process of creating a watershed map involves a combination of scientific analysis and data visualization techniques, and requires expertise in both geographic information systems (GIS) and hydrology.  The resulting map provides a valuable tool for understanding and managing water resources, and can be used to guide conservation and management efforts.

  • How do scientists collect data for watershed maps?  Scientists use a variety of methods to collect data for watershed maps, depending on the specific features of the watershed and the level of detail required. Some common methods include:
    1. Aerial photography:  Scientists can use high-resolution aerial photographs to create detailed maps of the landscape, including land cover, topography, and water features.  Aerial photography can be taken from airplanes, drones, or satellites, and can provide a wealth of information about the watershed.

    2. Ground-based surveys:  Scientists can also collect data on the ground, using instruments like surveying equipment, GPS devices, and stream gauges.  These instruments can be used to measure the elevation of the land surface, the flow rate of streams and rivers, and other physical characteristics of the watershed.

    3. Remote sensing:  Remote sensing involves using satellite or airborne sensors to collect data about the Earth’s surface. Scientists can use remote sensing data to create detailed maps of the watershed, including land cover, vegetation health, and water quality.

    4. Computer models: Scientists can use computer models to simulate the behavior of water in the watershed, based on data from various sources.  These models can help to predict how water moves through the landscape, how it interacts with different land uses, and how it may be impacted by climate change.

    Overall, collecting data for watershed maps requires a combination of fieldwork, remote sensing, and computer modeling techniques.  By integrating these different approaches, scientists can create comprehensive maps that provide valuable information about the health and sustainability of our water resources.

  • Who uses watershed maps?  Watershed maps are used by a variety of stakeholders who are involved in managing and protecting water resources.  Some examples of groups who use watershed maps include:
    1. Government agencies:  Local, state, and federal government agencies use watershed maps to manage water resources, develop land use plans, and monitor water quality.  These agencies may include the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the US Geological Survey (USGS), and state departments of environmental conservation.

    2. Researchers:  Scientists and researchers use watershed maps to study the behavior of water in the environment, as well as the impact of human activities on water quality and quantity.  This research can inform policy decisions and guide management strategies.

    3. Non-profit organizations:  Non-profit organizations like watershed associations and conservation groups use watershed maps to identify areas of concern, develop restoration plans, and engage with the public about the importance of protecting water resources.

    4. Industry:  Companies that rely on water resources, such as agriculture, forestry, and energy production, use watershed maps to understand the availability and quality of water in their operations.  This information can inform decisions about water use and conservation practices.

    5. Communities:  Local communities can use watershed maps to better understand the water resources in their area, as well as the potential impacts of development and land use changes.  This information can inform community planning efforts and support public education and outreach.

  • How do I read a watershed map?  Reading a watershed map can seem daunting at first, but with a little bit of background knowledge and practice, it can become a valuable tool for understanding the physical and human features of a watershed. Here are some tips for reading a watershed map:
    1. Identify the watershed boundaries:  The first step in reading a watershed map is to identify the boundaries of the watershed. This is usually represented by a dashed line or shaded area on the map.  The watershed boundary represents the geographic area that drains into a particular body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean.

    2. Look at the topography:  Watershed maps often include information about the topography of the watershed, which can help you understand how water moves through the landscape. Look for areas of higher elevation, such as mountains and hills, as well as lower areas like valleys and floodplains.  These features can influence the flow of water through the watershed.

    3. Identify water features:  Watershed maps may include information about rivers, streams, lakes, and other bodies of water within the watershed.  Look for symbols or shading that indicate the location and size of these features, as well as the direction of water flow.

    4. Understand land use:  Watershed maps often include information about land use within the watershed, such as agricultural areas, forests, and urban areas.  This information can help you understand how human activities are impacting the watershed and its water resources.

    5. Pay attention to scale:  Finally, be sure to pay attention to the scale of the map.  The scale will determine how much detail you can see, as well as the level of accuracy of the information presented.  Be aware that different maps may use different scales and symbols, so it’s important to understand the legend and any other supporting information provided.

  • What is a US watershed map?  A US watershed map is a type of map that shows the various watersheds across the United States.  A watershed is a geographic area that collects and drains water into a specific body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean. US watershed maps typically show the boundaries of different watersheds, as well as the bodies of water that they drain into.

    These maps can be useful for a variety of purposes, such as water management, conservation, and research.  For example, government agencies may use US watershed maps to develop land use plans, monitor water quality, and manage water resources. Scientists and researchers may use the maps to study the behavior of water in the environment and the impact of human activities on water quality and quantity.  Non-profit organizations and communities may use the maps to identify areas of concern, develop restoration plans, and engage with the public about the importance of protecting water resources.

    US watershed maps can be found online, in books, or through government agencies such as the US Geological Survey (USGS) or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  These maps typically use symbols and colors to indicate different features, such as the location of rivers and lakes, the direction of water flow, and the land use within the watershed.  Understanding how to read a US watershed map can provide valuable insight into the complex relationship between human activities and water resources in the United States.

  • What is a watershed definition?  A watershed is an area of land where all the water that falls or flows within it drains to a particular body of water, such as a river, lake, or ocean.  In other words, a watershed is a geographic region that collects and channels water and the land area that surrounds it.

    Watersheds are important because they provide a natural way to manage and conserve water resources.  By understanding how water moves through a watershed and the factors that influence it, scientists, policymakers, and communities can better manage water supplies, prevent water pollution, and protect natural habitats.

    Watersheds can vary in size, from small drainage basins that collect runoff from a single neighborhood, to large river basins that cover thousands of square miles.  The boundaries of a watershed are determined by the topography of the land, with higher elevations forming the divide between watersheds.

  • How do I draw a watershed map?  Drawing a watershed map can be a fun and educational project.  Here are some general steps to follow:
    1. Research the area:  Gather information about the location you want to map. This can include topographic maps, satellite imagery, and other data sources that show the contours of the land, the location of rivers and other bodies of water, and the boundaries of the area you want to map.

    2. Choose a scale:  Decide how large you want your map to be and choose a scale that is appropriate.  A larger scale will allow you to include more detail, but may also require more time and effort.

    3. Sketch the outline:  Use a pencil to sketch the outline of the area you want to map on a piece of paper or a transparency sheet.  This will serve as the base for your map.

    4. Add topographic features:  Use contour lines to show the elevation of the land.  These lines connect points of equal elevation and can help to show the shape of the land.

    5. Show bodies of water:  Use blue to show the location of rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water in the area.  Add arrows to show the direction of water flow.

    6. Indicate the watershed boundaries:  Use a dashed line or another symbol to show the boundaries of the watershed.  These are typically determined by the topography of the land, with the highest points forming the divide between watersheds.

    7. Add other features:  You can add other features to your map, such as roads, landmarks, and vegetation, to make it more informative and visually appealing.

    8. Label your map:  Add a title and a legend to your map to make it clear what you are showing.  You can also label the bodies of water, topographic features, and other important elements.

    9. Review and refine:  Once you have completed your map, review it to make sure it is accurate and easy to understand.  You can refine it by making adjustments to the scale, adding more detail, or improving the labeling.

Do you have a question we didn’t answer? Don’t hesitate to contact us at 1-385-206-8700 or [email protected].

Worldwide Delivery

WhiteClouds has delivered maps around the world.

History of Watershed Maps

The use of watershed maps dates back to the early 20th century when the United States Geological Survey (USGS) began mapping the nation’s water resources.  The USGS was established in 1879, and its mission was to survey the land and natural resources of the United States.  The agency’s early efforts focused on mapping the topography of the country, but by the early 1900s, it had expanded its mission to include mapping the nation’s water resources.

The first watershed maps were created using traditional cartographic techniques, including hand-drawn maps and aerial photography.  These maps were used to identify the boundaries of watersheds and to map the flow of water through the landscape.  They were also used to identify areas that were vulnerable to erosion and sedimentation.

In the 1930s, the USGS began using a new technology called photogrammetry to create more detailed and accurate maps. Photogrammetry involves taking aerial photographs of the landscape and using them to create three-dimensional models of the terrain. This allowed the USGS to create more accurate maps of watersheds, including detailed information about the topography and hydrology of each area.

The USGS also began using a new mapping technique called contouring, which involves drawing lines on a map to represent changes in elevation. Contour maps provided a detailed view of the topography of a watershed, making it easier to identify areas that were at risk for erosion and sedimentation.

During World War II, the USGS played a key role in mapping the terrain of battlefields around the world. This work led to the development of new mapping technologies, including the use of aerial photography and radar to create more detailed maps.

In the 1960s, the USGS began using computers to create digital maps of watersheds. This technology allowed for the creation of more detailed and accurate maps, and it made it easier to analyze and manage water resources.  The USGS also began using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software, which allowed users to overlay multiple layers of data on a map, making it possible to analyze the relationships between different factors such as land use, soil type, and water quality.

Today, watershed maps are created using a variety of technologies, including satellite imagery, LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), and drones.  These technologies allow for the creation of highly detailed and accurate maps, and they are being used by a wide range of organizations, including government agencies, environmental groups, and private companies.

In conclusion, the history of watershed maps reflects the evolution of cartographic technologies and the growing importance of understanding and managing our water resources.  From hand-drawn maps to digital maps created using satellite imagery and GIS software, watershed maps have played a key role in identifying areas that are at risk for erosion and sedimentation, managing water resources, and protecting sensitive environments.  As technology continues to evolve, watershed maps will likely become even more powerful and useful tools for environmental management. 

Historical Watershed Map from the USGS
1979 Watershed Boundaries for the USGS
Historical Watershed Map-Photogammety Software Model
Historical Watershed Map-Photogammety Software Model
Historical Watershed Map-Photogammety Software Model for Contouring
Historical Watershed Map with Contouring
Aerial Photography - 1939 over Manhattan
Aerial Photography

Get a free quote

Get a Free Quote