Susquehanna River Quiz

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Susquehanna River Quiz

Chesapeake Bay inputs, tributaries, basin, environmental issues (10 questions).

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Susquehanna River Quiz: Quick Study Notes

The Susquehanna River is a geographical giant, a vital artery of the Eastern United States with profound impacts on both human settlements and natural ecosystems. Spanning three states, its vast watershed and significant freshwater discharge make it a critical component of the Chesapeake Bay’s health and economy. Understanding its unique characteristics, tributaries, and environmental challenges is key to appreciating its role in regional geography.

Key Aspects of the Susquehanna River

Chesapeake Bay Input The Susquehanna is the largest river by discharge in the U.S. east of the Mississippi, providing roughly 50% of the Chesapeake Bay’s freshwater.
Major Tributaries Key branches include the North Branch and West Branch, which converge in Pennsylvania, along with many smaller rivers and streams like the Juniata.
Extensive Basin Its drainage basin covers parts of New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, encompassing diverse landscapes from forests to farmlands and urban areas.
Environmental Issues Challenges include nutrient and sediment pollution from agriculture and urban runoff, acid mine drainage, and habitat fragmentation from dams.

Key Takeaways

  • The Susquehanna River is the longest river on the East Coast of the United States.
  • It flows approximately 444 miles (715 km) from its headwaters in New York to the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland.
  • Its watershed covers nearly 27,500 square miles, making it one of the largest river basins in the Eastern U.S.
  • Agricultural runoff, urban stormwater, and legacy pollution like acid mine drainage are major contributors to its water quality issues.
  • A series of hydroelectric dams (e.g., Conowingo Dam) on its lower course impact fish migration and sediment flow to the Chesapeake Bay.
  • Efforts are continually underway to restore and protect the river and its basin due to its critical role in the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Susquehanna River begin and end?

The Susquehanna River begins in upstate New York, with its North Branch starting at Otsego Lake. It flows primarily through Pennsylvania, eventually emptying into the Chesapeake Bay at Havre de Grace, Maryland.

Why is the Susquehanna River so important to the Chesapeake Bay?

The Susquehanna River is the Chesapeake Bay’s largest source of freshwater, contributing approximately 50% of its total inflow. This freshwater is crucial for maintaining the Bay’s salinity balance and delivering essential nutrients, though it also carries pollutants that impact the Bay’s health.

What are the main environmental challenges facing the Susquehanna River?

Major environmental challenges include nutrient and sediment pollution primarily from agricultural runoff and urban development, acid mine drainage from historical coal mining, and habitat fragmentation caused by dams that block migratory fish passages.

Which states are part of the Susquehanna River basin?

The Susquehanna River basin drains parts of three U.S. states: New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Pennsylvania contains the largest portion of the basin.

Are there any dams on the Susquehanna River, and what is their impact?

Yes, there are several large hydroelectric dams on the lower Susquehanna River, including the Conowingo, Muddy Run, Holtwood, and Safe Harbor Dams. These dams generate power but also impede migratory fish (like American shad and eel) and trap sediment and nutrients, affecting the water quality downstream into the Chesapeake Bay.

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