Delaware River Quiz
Explore the basin states, major tributaries, Delaware Bay, and water supply of the Delaware River (10 questions).
Delaware River Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Delaware River is a major river on the Atlantic coast of the United States, flowing approximately 330 miles from the Catskill Mountains to Delaware Bay. It serves as a vital resource for millions of people, playing a crucial role in regional ecology, commerce, and water supply for several metropolitan areas.
Key Aspects of the Delaware River
The Delaware River Basin drains parts of four U.S. states: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
Significant tributaries include the Schuylkill River and Lehigh River in Pennsylvania, and the Neversink River in New York.
The river empties into the Delaware Bay, a large estuary that forms a natural boundary between New Jersey and Delaware, connecting to the Atlantic Ocean.
It is a critical source of drinking water for over 15 million people, including residents of Philadelphia and New York City.
Key Takeaways
- The Delaware River Basin spans four states: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
- Major tributaries include the Schuylkill River and Lehigh River, both flowing through Pennsylvania.
- The river’s journey culminates in the Delaware Bay, a significant estuary shared by New Jersey and Delaware.
- It supplies drinking water to approximately 15-17 million people, including major cities like Philadelphia and New York City.
- The Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) is an intergovernmental agency responsible for managing the basin’s water resources.
- Water diversions from the Delaware watershed are a crucial component of New York City’s municipal water supply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What states are in the Delaware River Basin?
The Delaware River Basin encompasses parts of four U.S. states: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. All four states are members of the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC).
What are the major tributaries of the Delaware River?
Key tributaries of the Delaware River include the Schuylkill River and Lehigh River in Pennsylvania, the Musconetcong River in New Jersey, and the Neversink River in New York. These rivers contribute significantly to the Delaware’s flow and watershed.
Where does the Delaware River flow into?
The Delaware River flows into the Delaware Bay, a large estuary that ultimately opens into the Atlantic Ocean. The bay forms a natural boundary between southern New Jersey and Delaware.
Does the Delaware River supply water to New York City?
Yes, the Delaware River watershed is a critical source of drinking water for New York City. Through a system of reservoirs and aqueducts, approximately 50% of NYC’s daily drinking water supply is diverted from tributaries in the upper Delaware Basin.
What is the purpose of the Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC)?
The Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) is an intergovernmental agency formed by a compact between the four basin states (NY, PA, NJ, DE) and the U.S. federal government. Its primary purpose is to manage the water resources of the Delaware River Basin in a comprehensive and sustainable manner, addressing issues like water quality, supply, flood control, and recreation.
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