In both marine and freshwater systems eutrophication can reduce the recreational and aesthetic value of a waterbody. Groundwater Groundwater is a source of drinking water for many of the Maskerchugg River watershed residents. Groundwater is water found within the saturated area of the soil. Some of the precipitation that falls within the watershed moves through the soil and the cracks in the bedrock and reaches the groundwater. The water table marks the boundary between the saturated and unsaturated zones.
Land use can affect groundwater quality.
As rain moves over the earth's surface it can pick up and dissolve pollutants. These pollutants can contaminate groundwater supplies. A portion of the Hunt River groundwater reservoir's recharge area extends into a commercial area in the Maskerchugg River watershed. This creates concerns for the protection of groundwater quality because the Hunt River groundwater reservoir supplies community wells that provide drinking water to many residents. Contaminants associated with commercial areas that can affect groundwater quality include bacteria, nutrients, gasoline products, and heavy metals.