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What's a Basin?
Basin is the popular term given to lands which eventually descend to a river or a stream. From the highest point of land down to the stream bottom all the surface land is
considered part of a stream or river's drainage. Another term used a lot is 'watershed'. This term
relates to water being shed or running down to the stream. What basin do you live in?
The Chehalis Watershed or basin, has many tributaries. Some are rivers in their own name: Black, Wynoochee, Skookumchuck, Satsop and Humptulips are just a few of the many rivers. Each river has its' own basin or watershed.
Because all these tributaries feed into the Chehalis, the CRC treats the entire watershed as one. Residents throughout this 2600 square mile watershed all play a role in the health and welfare of the entire watershed. Conditions that impact water at the headwaters of the Black River will have an impact on water quality at the mouth of the Chehalis. Likewise discharges into the mouth will impact fish returning to the Newaukum.
How Can You Help?
Maintaining water quality is a task that has opportunities for everyone. As other's have said, "Think globally, act locally." This applies to water quality too. Start with your home, your neighborhood, your watershed.
What can you do?
Learn about water issues. Find out what is going on around you which might have a long term impact on either water quality or water resources.
The CRC conducts monthly meetings. Find out where and when the next one is.
Your local library and the CRC have publications on water quality. Many of the ones at the CRC are available to check out or if we have extras you can obtain a copy without cost.
If you want to start a local watershed team and want help from an independent, nonprofit organization, contact the CRC . The Chehalis River watershed would benefit by having local teams along each watershed.
Finally, read the Chehalis River Basin Action Plan and learn what others already have found out.
For more ideas on helping click here