CATCHMENT Meaning and
Definition
-
Catchment refers to a defined geographical area or region characterized by its ability to collect and gather water, particularly rainfall or runoff, which is then channeled to a central point or a specific body of water, such as a river, lake, or reservoir. It functions as a natural or constructed basin that acts as a catch-all for the water that falls or flows within its boundaries.
In hydrological terms, a catchment is considered the fundamental unit for studying and managing water resources. It encompasses all the land and surfaces within its boundaries from which water drains or is collected, including hills, mountains, slopes, plains, and wetlands. The catchment area can range in size from a small sub-watershed to a large river basin or even an entire coastal region.
Catchments are essential components of the water cycle, providing a vital source of freshwater for human consumption, agricultural irrigation, and industrial purposes. They play a crucial role in controlling and regulating water quantity and quality, as they determine the amount of water available for storage, groundwater recharge, and ecosystem support.
The management and protection of catchments are of utmost importance to ensure sustainable water supply, as they directly influence the quantity and quality of water available for various purposes. Conservation efforts often focus on the reforestation of catchment areas to reduce erosion, enhance infiltration, mitigate flood risks, and maintain water flow throughout the year. Effective catchment management techniques include the implementation of land-use planning, erosion control measures, and the establishment of protected areas to safeguard water resources and preserve the overall ecological balance.
Top Common Misspellings for CATCHMENT *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for CATCHMENT
Etymology of CATCHMENT
The word "catchment" comes from the Middle English term "cachen", which means "to catch" or "to seize". It was derived from the Old French word "chacier", meaning "to chase" or "to hunt". Over time, the word evolved into "catch" in English and took on the additional meaning of "receiving or collecting something". Ultimately, the term "catchment" emerged to describe an area or region that collects or receives water, such as a drainage basin or watershed.
Similar spelling words for CATCHMENT
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
