What is a Watershed?

A Watershed is an area of land drained by a creek, stream or river. The Otonabee Region Watershed covers an area of almost 2000 km2. The watershed environment includes wetlands, forests, and many lakes, rivers, and streams. It encompasses the sub-watersheds of the Otonabee, Indian, and Ouse Rivers.

Our watershed features some unique natural areas!

• The Oak Ridges Moraine is a natural feature in the southern part of the watershed.
• The Peterborough Drumlin Fields in the east creates a landscape of hills and valleys.
• In the northern part of the watershed, the granite of the Canadian Shield is visible.

Our watershed is home to more than 100,000 people in rural and urban areas. A healthy watershed is important for our environment, community, and economy. Our daily activities can impact our land and water resources. It is important to remember that everyone lives downstream from someone else.

Otonabee Conservation delivers programs and services to support a healthy watershed. This includes monitoring the state of the watershed environment. We use this information to inform, educate, and engage our partners, residents, and visitors.