Problems vary between large and small communities, between rural and urban areas, and from arid regions to places with plenty of water. The problems can vary at different locations in a watershed - often with competing solutions. Watershed management helps solve the problems cost-effectively, fairly, and scientifically. The last time you went to the symphony, you didn't listen to the sounds from just one instrument - you heard the entire orchestra. It was a holistic or complete experience.
Watershed management is like that.
Instead of focusing attention and resources on one particular water quality problems, we take a holistic approach. Decisions are based on all the water resources, all the water uses, and all the threats to water quality throughout a common geographical area. Watershed management integrates programs to manage lakes, rivers, oceans, and groundwater, and provides a strong framework for future watershed protection. The result is improved water quality for communities throughout the watershed. Protecting our water is not a new idea, but watershed management is a new approach to improving water quality.