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The Obed River watershed is a vital natural system within the Cumberland Plateau that supports clean water, diverse plant and animal life, outdoor recreation, and the surrounding communities. The health of the watershed directly affects stream quality, habitat resilience, and the region's long-term sustainability.
The Obed River watershed is a vital natural system within the Cumberland Plateau that supports clean water, diverse plant and animal life, outdoor recreation, and the surrounding communities. The health of the watershed directly affects stream quality, habitat resilience, and the region's long-term sustainability.
A watershed includes all the land where rainfall and runoff drain into a common body of water. What happens on the land — from development to conservation — has a direct impact on the rivers and streams that flow through it.
A watershed includes all the land where rainfall and runoff drain into a common body of water. What happens on the land — from development to conservation — has a direct impact on the rivers and streams that flow through it.
Watershed Boundaries & Geography
Watershed Boundaries & Geography
The Obed River watershed includes the Obed River and its tributaries, flowing through forested lands, rural communities, and protected natural areas.
This watershed:
Is part of the larger Cumberland River basin
Includes headwater streams, tributaries, and floodplains
Plays an important role in regional water quality and biodiversity
👉 Watershed Maps
Water Quality & Stream Health
Water Quality & Stream Health
Healthy streams are essential for wildlife, recreation, and human use. Water quality within the watershed can be influenced by both natrual and human activities.
Key factors affecting stream health:
Sediment and erosion
Nutrient runoff
Bacteria and pollutants
Streambank stability
Protecting water quality helps ensure safe recreation, healthy aquatic habitats, and reliable water resources for future generations.
Land Use & Conservation Challenges
Land Use & Conservation Challenges
Land use throughout the watershed plays a significant role in its overall health. Changes in the landscape can increase stress on streams and habitats if not managed carefully.
Common challenges:
Runoff from roads, lawns, and development
Streambank erosion
Loss of native vegetation
Invasive plant species
Addressing these challenges requires education, stewardship, and collaboration among landowners, communities, and conservation partners.
Recreation & Stewardship
Recreation & Stewardship
The Obed River watershed supports a wide range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, climbing, paddling, fishing, and nature observation. These activities depend on clean water and healthy ecosystems.
Responsible recreation helps protect the watershed by:
Reducing erosion and litter
Protecting sensitive habitats
Encouraging long-term conservation awareness
Stewardship ensures that people can continue to enjoy the watershed while preserving its natural character.
👉 Learn more about recreation and stewardship in the watershed through curated educational videos on our Resources page.
How You Can Help
How You Can Help
Everyone who lives, works, or recreates in the watershed plays a role in protecting it. Small actions can make a meaningful difference.
Ways individuals can help:
Reduce fertilizer and chemical use near waterways
Plant native species
Pick up litter near streams and trails
Maintain natural vegetation along streambanks
Learn more about local watershed issues
Community involvement is essential to long-term watershed protection.
OWCA's Role
OWCA's Role
The Obed Watershed Community Association (OWCA) works to promote education, stewardship, and community engagement throughout the Obed River watershed. Through partnerships, outreach, and volunteer involvement, OWCA supports efforts to protect water quality and preserve the watershed for future generations.
Related Resources & Links
Related Resources & Links
The following resources provide additional information and perspectives related to watershed protection, conservation, and stewardship within the region:
Watershed education and learning resources
Regional conservation organizations
State and federal water quality information
Stewardship and conservation best practices
👉 Learn more about organizations working across the region on our Resources page.
OWCA Merchandise
OWCA Merchandise
Supporters may purchase items that help promote OWCA and its mission through our Online Store.
Orders are processed individually by our vendor and shipped directly to your address. Availability and offerings may vary.
Native Plants Sold Locally
Native Plants Sold Locally
OWCA maintains a limited inventory of native plants to support habitat restoration and encourage the use of native species within the Obed River watershed.
To inquire about current availability or arrange a pickup time, please email obedwatershed1@gmail.com or call (931) 484-9033.
OWCA does not have a storefront. Native plants are made available periodically and only by arrangement. Availability may vary by season.
OWCA is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization.
OWCA is a volunteer-driven nonprofit organization.
Membership, donations, and community involvement make it possible for us to continue protecting and caring for the Obed River watershed.
Membership, donations, and community involvement make it possible for us to continue protecting and caring for the Obed River watershed.
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