Chapter 11.4 Flashcards
What is a Continental divide?
The Continental divide is the highest parts of North America. These areas of high land divide the the waters and ice on each side causing them to flow downhill in different directions.
What is a watershed?
A watershed is an area from which all water drains downhill to a common destination. it is surrounded by high land and drained by its rivers and tributaries. All runoff from within the watershed leaves the watershed at the same exit.
How can a watershed be threatened?
Watersheds can be damaged if the quality of water is polluted with contaminants. The volume of waters can also be affected if rivers are dammed.
Who are the Conservation authorities?
Conservation authorities are the caretakers of watersheds and protect/manage local watersheds.
- They balance human and economic needs with the needs of the natural environment
- They design, promote, and implement plans to restore water systems within watersheds.
How do Conservation authorities help to preserve and plan for our water use?
They educate and provide advice on how to keep water clean, protect communities from flooding, and contribute to municipal planning processes.
What is bioremediation?
Bioremediation is a process that makes use of organisms to help correct pollution problems.
How does bioremediation work?
Organisms that feed on specific pollutants can be used to break down pollutants and remove them from the environment.
What is one example of an organism that performs bioremediation?
Bacteria can be added to a pond contaminated with oil. The bacteria can convert the oil into carbon dioxide and water.
How can aquatic plants be used to remove mercury from water?
As aquatic plants grow, their cells accumulate the metals . Removing the contaminated plants removes the metal from the environment.
What is a wetland?
Wetlands are natural water-cleaners. They remove bacteria, waste solids, and excess nutrients from water. Protecting wetlands is important for the sustainability of our water systems.
