What is the goal of a watershed management plan?

The primary goal of a watershed management plan is to address water quality and quantity issues at a landscape level. Such plans are designed to holistically manage water resources within a specific watershed, considering the interconnected nature of land use, hydrology, and ecosystem health. By focusing on both quality and quantity, these plans ensure that the water supply is adequate for various needs, including drinking water, ecological systems, and recreational use while preventing pollution and degradation of water bodies.

Managing water resources at a landscape level means taking into account all the factors that influence water systems—such as land cover, population density, agricultural practices, and urban development. This comprehensive approach allows for better planning and implementation of strategies that can improve watershed health, enhance water availability, and protect water sources from contamination.

The other options, while relevant to certain aspects of watershed management, do not encapsulate the main objective of a watershed management plan. Maintaining aesthetic appeal, promoting recreation, or evaluating treatment plant effectiveness addresses specific aspects but does not capture the broader scope of managing water quality and quantity within a watershed context.