The Watershed Condition Framework

The Watershed Condition Framework is a system used by agencies like the U.S. Forest Service to assess the health of rivers and streams within a watershed. It evaluates factors such as water quality, habitat, and land use to determine if conditions are healthy, at risk, or impaired. This helps prioritize conservation efforts, improve ecosystem sustainability, and ensure clean, reliable water sources for communities and wildlife. The framework provides a scientific basis for decision-making and resource management, aiming to maintain or restore watershed health over time.