An Overview of Maryland's Rivers and Lakes

Major Water Features of Maryland

Maryland boasts several notable water features. The largest rivers include the Potomac and the Susquehanna, while famous lakes and reservoirs include Deep Creek Lake and Loch Raven Reservoir. Streams like the Patapsco River and Gunpowder Falls are also prominent.

Water Sources of Maryland's Rivers and Lakes

The water sources for Maryland's rivers, lakes, and streams vary. Some, like the Potomac River, receive water from local mountain snowmelt, while others, such as the Susquehanna River, are fed from distant mountain ranges in other states, along with local precipitation and groundwater.

Types of Rivers in Maryland

Maryland's major perennial rivers include the Potomac and the Patapsco. Exotic rivers like the Youghiogheny River bring unique characteristics. Tributary rivers such as the Monocacy River contribute to larger systems, while man-made rivers like the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal serve as historic transportation routes.

Types of Lakes in Maryland

Maryland features various types of lakes, predominantly anthropogenic, such as Loch Raven Reservoir, which was created for drinking water supply. There are also fluvial lakes like Deep Creek Lake, formed by damming a river, and shoreline lakes like Lake Linganore, formed along riverbanks.

Orientations of Maryland's Rivers

Most rivers in Maryland predominantly flow east-west, including the Patapsco and Potomac rivers. This orientation often influences regional geography and historical settlement patterns.

Origin and Use of Maryland's Lakes

Many lakes in Maryland are man-made reservoirs constructed for water supply, flood control, and recreation. Loch Raven Reservoir, for instance, was created by the City of Baltimore in the early 20th century to ensure a stable water supply for the city.

Transportation Uses of Maryland's Rivers

While Maryland's rivers historically played a significant role in transportation, primarily for goods like coal and agricultural products, their use for heavy cargo transportation has declined with the advent of rail and road networks.

Dams on Maryland's Rivers and Lakes

Maryland has numerous dams primarily used for flood control, water supply, and hydroelectric power generation. Examples include Conowingo Dam on the Susquehanna River, which serves all these purposes.

Recreational Uses of Maryland's Waterways

Several rivers, lakes, and reservoirs in Maryland are popular for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking. Deep Creek Lake is known for boating and fishing, while the Chesapeake Bay offers sailing and recreational boating opportunities.

Agricultural Support by Maryland's Water Features

The agricultural industry in Maryland benefits from water features like the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries, which support aquaculture and provide irrigation water for farms in the region.