What Are Some Lakes and Rivers in the Appalachian Plateau?

The Appalachian Plateau, a rugged and scenic region stretching from New York to Alabama, is home to a diverse network of lakes and rivers, serving as vital sources of water, recreation, and ecological support. While lacking the vast, natural lakes of glaciated regions, the plateau boasts numerous reservoirs and impoundments, alongside significant river systems carved by millennia of erosion.

Exploring the Waterways of the Appalachian Plateau

The Appalachian Plateau’s hydrological landscape is characterized by its dissected topography, which leads to the formation of countless streams and rivers flowing through deep valleys and narrow gorges. While large natural lakes are rare, human intervention has created several significant reservoirs, greatly altering the region’s aquatic ecology and providing valuable resources.

Major River Systems

Several major river systems dissect the Appalachian Plateau, each with its own unique characteristics and ecological significance.

• The Ohio River: While not entirely within the Plateau’s boundaries, the Ohio River forms a significant part of its western border and receives numerous tributaries originating within the plateau. It serves as a major transportation route and a critical source of water for communities downstream. Its tributaries such as the Allegheny River and Monongahela River are particularly important and carve through the heart of the Plateau.

• The Susquehanna River: Draining a large portion of Pennsylvania and New York, the Susquehanna River’s West Branch originates in the Appalachian Plateau. The river is known for its scenic beauty and its historical importance as a transportation corridor. Its extensive watershed supports a diverse range of aquatic life.

• The New River: Despite its name, the New River is one of the oldest rivers in North America. It flows northwards through the Appalachian Plateau, cutting through ancient mountains and showcasing dramatic geological formations. Its wild and scenic character makes it a popular destination for outdoor recreation. The Gauley River, a tributary of the New, is famous for its whitewater rafting.

• The Kanawha River: Formed by the confluence of the New and Gauley Rivers, the Kanawha flows westward through West Virginia, draining a large portion of the central Appalachian Plateau. It played a crucial role in the region’s industrial development and remains an important waterway.

Significant Lakes and Reservoirs

Due to its geological history, the Appalachian Plateau is relatively lacking in naturally formed large lakes. However, human-made reservoirs and impoundments are prevalent.

• Allegheny Reservoir (Kinzua Lake): Created by the Kinzua Dam on the Allegheny River, this large reservoir stretches across the border between Pennsylvania and New York. It provides flood control, hydropower, and recreational opportunities.

• Raystown Lake: Located in south-central Pennsylvania, Raystown Lake is the largest lake entirely within Pennsylvania. It was formed by the construction of the Raystown Dam on the Juniata River and is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping.

• Sutton Lake: A reservoir on the Elk River in West Virginia, Sutton Lake provides flood control, water supply, and recreational opportunities. Its scenic shoreline and diverse fishery make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

• Stonewall Jackson Lake: Located in West Virginia, Stonewall Jackson Lake is a reservoir created on the West Fork River. It offers various recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking, and is surrounded by a state park.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Why are there so few natural lakes in the Appalachian Plateau compared to other regions?

The lack of large natural lakes in the Appalachian Plateau is primarily due to its geological history. Unlike regions that were heavily glaciated, like the Great Lakes region, the Appalachian Plateau was largely unglaciated during the last Ice Age. Glaciers carve out lake basins as they advance and retreat, which is why areas with significant glacial history have many natural lakes. The Appalachian Plateau’s topography, shaped by long-term erosion rather than glacial activity, resulted in a landscape of deep valleys and steep slopes, which are not conducive to the formation of large natural lake basins.

Q2: What are the primary uses of the reservoirs in the Appalachian Plateau?

The reservoirs in the Appalachian Plateau serve multiple purposes, including flood control, hydroelectric power generation, water supply for municipal and industrial use, and recreational opportunities. They provide essential protection against flooding, generate clean energy, supply water for various needs, and offer opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water-based activities.

Q3: What types of fish can be found in the rivers and lakes of the Appalachian Plateau?

The rivers and lakes of the Appalachian Plateau are home to a diverse range of fish species. Common species include various types of trout (brook, brown, rainbow), bass (smallmouth, largemouth), walleye, catfish, muskellunge, and various panfish such as bluegill and crappie. The specific fish species found in a particular waterway will depend on factors such as water temperature, water quality, and habitat availability.

Q4: What are some of the environmental concerns facing the waterways of the Appalachian Plateau?

Several environmental concerns threaten the health of the waterways in the Appalachian Plateau. Acid mine drainage (AMD) from abandoned coal mines is a significant problem, polluting streams and rivers with acidic water and heavy metals. Sedimentation from erosion, nutrient pollution from agricultural runoff and sewage discharge, and invasive species also pose threats to aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, the impacts of climate change, such as altered precipitation patterns and increased water temperatures, are expected to exacerbate these challenges.

Q5: How does acid mine drainage affect the aquatic life in the rivers and streams?

Acid mine drainage (AMD) has devastating effects on aquatic life. The acidic water, often containing high concentrations of heavy metals such as iron, aluminum, and manganese, can directly kill fish and other aquatic organisms. AMD can also disrupt the food chain by eliminating the insects and other invertebrates that fish rely on for food. The resulting orange or reddish staining of the streambed, caused by iron precipitation, further degrades habitat quality.

Q6: Are there any protected areas along the rivers and lakes of the Appalachian Plateau?

Yes, there are several protected areas along the rivers and lakes of the Appalachian Plateau, including national parks, national forests, state parks, and wildlife refuges. These areas help protect the natural resources of the region, including its waterways, and provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and conservation. Examples include sections of the New River designated as a National River and the Allegheny National Forest which contains the Allegheny Reservoir.

Q7: What are some popular recreational activities available on the waterways of the Appalachian Plateau?

The waterways of the Appalachian Plateau offer a wide range of recreational activities, including boating (canoeing, kayaking, motorboating), fishing, swimming, whitewater rafting, hiking along riverbanks, and wildlife observation. Many of the reservoirs and rivers are popular destinations for anglers seeking to catch trout, bass, walleye, and other game fish.

Q8: How are local communities working to protect and restore the waterways of the Appalachian Plateau?

Local communities are actively involved in protecting and restoring the waterways of the Appalachian Plateau through various initiatives. These include watershed associations that work to monitor water quality, implement best management practices for agriculture and forestry, and advocate for policies that protect water resources. Volunteers often participate in stream cleanups, tree planting projects, and other restoration activities. Furthermore, government agencies and non-profit organizations are working to address acid mine drainage and other sources of pollution.

Q9: What role do the rivers of the Appalachian Plateau play in the region’s economy?

The rivers of the Appalachian Plateau play a significant role in the region’s economy, providing water for industry and agriculture, supporting tourism and recreation, and serving as transportation corridors. The rivers also contribute to the region’s natural beauty and enhance the quality of life for its residents.

Q10: What is the impact of dams on the rivers of the Appalachian Plateau?

Dams have significant impacts on the rivers of the Appalachian Plateau. While they provide benefits such as flood control and hydroelectric power, they also alter the natural flow regime of the river, block fish migration, and change the habitat structure. Dams can also trap sediment, leading to the accumulation of sediment upstream and erosion downstream. Efforts are being made to mitigate the negative impacts of dams through strategies such as installing fish ladders and managing water releases.

Q11: How is climate change impacting the waterways of the Appalachian Plateau?

Climate change is having a growing impact on the waterways of the Appalachian Plateau. Changes in precipitation patterns, such as more frequent and intense storms, are leading to increased flooding and erosion. Rising water temperatures are stressing coldwater fish species like trout and making the rivers more susceptible to invasive species. Changes in snowpack are also affecting the timing and volume of river flows.

Q12: Where can I find more information about the rivers and lakes of the Appalachian Plateau?

More information about the rivers and lakes of the Appalachian Plateau can be found through various sources, including government agencies (e.g., the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, state departments of environmental protection), non-profit organizations (e.g., watershed associations, conservation groups), academic institutions, and online resources. Specific information about water quality data, recreational opportunities, and conservation efforts can often be found on the websites of these organizations.