All About Streams

Along with many other local and state organizations, the Potter County Conservation District works to protect the health of our watersheds. Fish, amphibians, insects, and the streams they inhabit are all indicators of the health of the environment as a whole. The District's programs and projects help ensure our county's water, natural resources and habitats remain healthy for years to come.

Potter County is home to many waters that are considered prime habitat for the Brook Trout, our only native trout and the state fish of Pennsylvania. This is just one of a few species that serve as a biological indicator of good stream health overall.

"Watershed" refers to an entire area of land where all water drains to the same point. This is determined by topography (aka, the lay of the land - ridges, valleys, basins, forests). Each small stream is part of a larger watershed. Together, these streams gradually drain to larger bodies of water. Potter County is home to three major watersheds, also known as the Triple Divide.

First, let's take a look at important stream features. Click on the annotations in the 360 photo to learn about each item. To enlarge the picture, click the button in center-right side of the shot.

Early in our county's history, farming, logging, and outdoor recreation were important sources of work and overall well being. Thanks to the abundance of natural resources and excellent water, these industries thrived for years. Gradually, overuse and exploitation took it's toll on the resources and on people. Streams left without enough trees to shade and protect them became muddy and warm and fish died off. Cattle and agricultural crossings of streams created a few similar water issues, plus the encroachment of wetland areas long before regulations were in place to protect such habitats. Years of over consumption of fish and game took it's toll on wildlife populations.

It's important to remember that our early inhabitants were seeking a means to survive, and did not know the impact their actions would have. What matters is that they learned from their mistakes.

Following this era of industrialization, a new mindset quickly took over people in Potter County and in the entire country. This involved a focus on restoration and wiser use of our natural resources.

Among other state and federal actions, Potter County became home to the first Conservation District in the entire state, in 1945.

1) The District oversees land development activities and permit applications, ensuring that construction of any kind does not harm nearby waters

2) We provide education opportunities to promote best management practices and backyard conservation techniques

3) We apply for funding to organize streambank restoration and fish habitat projects, such as the one included below!

For more information or to contact the Conservation District, please call 814-274-8411 ext. 4, or email pccd@zitomedia.net