Home Our Work Planning Comprehensive Plan for the Water Resources of the Susquehanna River Basin (2021-2041)
Comprehensive Plan for the Water Resources of the Susquehanna River Basin (2021 - 2041)
Pub. No. 325
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission (Commission) is an independent agency created by a federal-interstate compact* among the states of Maryland and New York, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the Federal government. In creating the Commission, the Congress and state legislatures formally recognized the water resources of the Susquehanna River Basin as a regional asset vested with local, state, and national interests for which all parties share responsibility. As the single federal-interstate water resources agency with basinwide authority, the Commission coordinates the planning, conservation, management, utilization, development, and control of Basin water resources among the public and private sectors.
*Statutory Citations: Federal - Pub. L. 91-575, 84 Stat. 1509 (December 1970); Maryland - Natural Resources Sec. 8-301 (Michie 1974);
New York - ECL Sec. 21-1301 (McKinney 1973); and Pennsylvania - 32 P.S. 820.1 (Supp. 1976).
Basil Seggos, New York Commissioner
James Tierney, New York Alternate
Patrick McDonnell, Pennsylvania Commissioner
Aneca Atkinson, Pennsylvania Alternate
Brigadier General Thomas J. Tickner, U.S. Commissioner
Colonel John T. Litz, U.S. Alternate
Amy M. Guise, U.S. Alternate
Andrew D. Dehoff, P.E., Executive Director
"2021 marks the 50th Anniversary of the 100-year Susquehanna River Basin Compact. In recognition of this milestone, I am excited to present this Comprehensive Plan for the Water Resources of the Susquehanna River Basin (2021 - 2041), which articulates SRBC's vision, goals, and objectives for the Basin over the next two decades."
Andrew Dehoff, P.E., Executive Director
Executive Summary
The Susquehanna River Basin Compact requires the Commission to plan for the immediate and long-range development and use of the water resources of the Basin. The Comprehensive Plan provides an overarching framework for the Commission to manage the Basin’s water resources and serves as a guide for all Commission programs and activities. This site contains the 2021 - 2041 version of the Comprehensive Plan, which outlines the vision, needs, and strategy for effective water resources management for the next 20 years.
The Commission envisions a clean, sustainable, and adequate water supply in the Susquehanna River Basin that supports a range of
human, economic, and ecological needs. Through collaborative partnerships and coordinated action, as well as use of the best
science, water resources in the Basin will be managed effectively to meet existing and emerging challenges in the face of changes
to the landscape and climate extremes. As a result, Basin communities will be able to reliably depend on their water supply for a
range of uses, be better prepared and able to mitigate the impacts from floods and droughts, and benefit from healthy aquatic
ecosystems and enhanced recreation.
Vision for the Susquehanna River Basin
The Commission envisions a clean, sustainable, and adequate water supply in the Susquehanna River Basin that supports a range of
human, economic, and ecological needs. Through collaborative partnerships and coordinated action, as well as use of the best
science, water resources in the Basin will be managed effectively to meet existing and emerging challenges in the face of changes
to the landscape and climate extremes. As a result, Basin communities will be able to reliably depend on their water supply for a
range of uses, be better prepared and able to mitigate the impacts from floods and droughts, and benefit from healthy aquatic
ecosystems and enhanced recreation.
Making the vision reality means addressing diverse, complex water resources needs, now and in the future. These needs are interconnected and continually evolving, requiring integrated and adaptive water resources management approaches to ensure water demands are met while balancing public health and safety, economic development, and ecosystem stewardship. Key challenges over the next 20 years include, for example:
Ensuring adequate water supply for electric generation, public water supply, manufacturing, mining, natural gas, agriculture, and recreation
Restoring impaired streams impacted by agriculture, abandoned mine drainage, urban runoff, habitat modification, and atmospheric deposition
Improving flood and drought warning, planning, and mitigation for vulnerable communities and sectors
Reducing stormwater runoff and associated sediment, nutrient, and pollutant loadings from developed lands
This Comprehensive Plan is organized around four Priority Management Areas (PMAs) that capture these and related requirements:
Climate change is a key challenge crossing all priority areas and is addressed within each PMA's objectives. Coordination with and outreach to partners and the public is also essential in all four areas, and technology and data analytics will support and enhance efforts associated with our goals. Overall, it is also important to ensure management goals meet the needs of underserved or disadvantaged communities within the context of environmental justice.
Issued on the 50th anniversary of the Susquehanna River Basin Compact, this Comprehensive Plan builds on five decades of achievements in the Basin and lays out a path to further successes supporting public, industry, and ecological needs. The Basin will face many challenges over the next 20 years, but there are also many opportunities for the Commission and its stakeholders to rise to the occasion.
Together, the Commission and its partners have evaluated today’s conditions and tomorrow’s needs, and developed this Plan to assure the Basin’s water resources are managed effectively through coordinated, collective action. The Plan’s primary purposes are to provide a:
Framework that focuses and guides coordinated action among the Commission and its partners to effectively manage the water resources of the Basin
Means to ensure critical projects for sustainable management and use of Basin water resources are supported by stakeholders and adequately funded
Introduction
Issued on the 50th anniversary of the Susquehanna River Basin Compact, this Comprehensive Plan builds on five decades of achievements in the Basin and lays out a path to further successes supporting public, industry, and ecological needs. The Basin will face many challenges over the next 20 years, but there are also many opportunities for the Commission and its stakeholders to rise to the occasion.
Together, the Commission and its partners have evaluated today’s conditions and tomorrow’s needs, and developed this Plan to assure the Basin’s water resources are managed effectively through coordinated, collective action. The Plan’s primary purposes are to provide a:
Framework that focuses and guides coordinated action among the Commission and its partners to effectively manage the water resources of the Basin
Means to ensure critical projects for sustainable management and use of Basin water resources are supported by stakeholders and adequately funded
Susquehanna River Basin Quick Facts
The Susquehanna River is the largest river lying entirely in the United States that drains to the Atlantic Ocean.
The river flows 444 miles from Otsego Lake in Cooperstown, NY, to the Chesapeake Bay at Havre de Grace, MD.
There are 49,000 miles of waterways among the Susquehanna River and its hundreds of tributaries.
The Basin comprises 27,500 square miles of drainage area within the states of New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.
The population of Basin is just under 4.2 million people.
The Basin is made up of 63% forest and naturally vegetated lands.
The river has a normal flow of about 18 million gallons per minute at Havre de Grace, MD.
The river flows about 20 miles per day on an average summer day.
Visit the Susquehanna Atlas for more maps and data on key characteristics of the Basin.
Commission Authority
The Susquehanna River Basin Compact was enacted
in December 1970 as Public Law 91-575 and joined the federal government and states of New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland as equal
partners for a period of 100 years to manage the Basin’s water resources. The Compact created the Commission as the agency to develop
and effectuate plans, policies, and projects relating to water resources of the Basin in a coordinated manner. In January 1971, the
Compact took effect and the Commission was officially established.
The Compact requires the Commission to formulate and adopt a Comprehensive Plan for the immediate and long-range development and
use of the water resources of the Basin.
The Comprehensive Plan is to include public and private projects and facilities required, in the Commission's judgment, for optimum
planning, development, conservation, utilization, management, and control of the water resources of the Basin to meet present and
future needs. The Comprehensive Plan is also to take into consideration the effect of the plan upon the receiving waters of the Chesapeake Bay.
Commission Authority
The Susquehanna River Basin Compact was enacted
in December 1970 as Public Law 91-575 and joined the federal government and states of New York, Pennsylvania, and Maryland as equal
partners for a period of 100 years to manage the Basin’s water resources. The Compact created the Commission as the agency to develop
and effectuate plans, policies, and projects relating to water resources of the Basin in a coordinated manner. In January 1971, the
Compact took effect and the Commission was officially established.
The Compact requires the Commission to formulate and adopt a Comprehensive Plan for the immediate and long-range development and
use of the water resources of the Basin.
The Comprehensive Plan is to include public and private projects and facilities required, in the Commission's judgment, for optimum
planning, development, conservation, utilization, management, and control of the water resources of the Basin to meet present and
future needs. The Comprehensive Plan is also to take into consideration the effect of the plan upon the receiving waters of the Chesapeake Bay.
Comprehensive Plan Approach
This 2021 - 2041 Comprehensive Plan incorporates the perspectives of a diverse group of stakeholders who provided input used to help interpret the Compact’s broad authorities in the context of contemporary and anticipated future water resources needs.
Key Contributors
Commissioners, alternates, and advisors
Water Resources Management Advisory Committee (WRMAC)
Commission leadership, management, and staff
Interested public, private, and nonprofit sector stakeholders
Based on their feedback, the Commission focused the Plan on four Priority Management Areas (PMAs) for the next 20 years:
The PMAs and their respective goals and objectives comprise a forward-thinking, collaborative approach to water resources management in the Basin using the latest science, data, and analytical methods. Together, the Commission and its partners can meet a complex web of human, economic, and ecosystem needs, now and in the future.
The critical issues of climate change and the environmental justice are also addressed throughout this Comprehensive Plan.
Water Resources Needs
Water resources needs in the Basin are diverse and complex. They are also interconnected and continually evolving, requiring integrated and
adaptive water resources management approaches to ensure water demands are met while balancing public health and safety, economic
development, and ecosystem stewardship. Primary needs fall into the four general categories and align with the PMAs in this 2021 - 2041 Comprehensive Plan:
Water resources needs in the Basin are diverse and complex. They are also interconnected and continually evolving, requiring integrated and
adaptive water resources management approaches to ensure water demands are met while balancing public health and safety, economic
development, and ecosystem stewardship. Primary needs fall into the four general categories and align with the PMAs in this 2021 - 2041 Comprehensive Plan:
Population and domestic water demand in the Basin will continue to grow.
There will be an ongoing need to increase water conservation and ensure public water supplies are sustainable.
2019 and Projected 2040 Population and Domestic Water Use
Year
Population
Domestic Water Use (mgd)
2019
4,179,503*
418.0
2040
4,495,040
449.5
*2019 population data from American Community Survey, US Census Bureau, 2019
Water supply needs in all sectors fluctuate with market conditions, technology, etc.
Continued tracking and forecasting of water use for industry is key to inform planning and regulatory decisions.
2019 and Projected 2040 Withdrawals and Consumptive Use by Sector
The Commission identified several water-challenged and potentially stressed areas.
With less water for sustainable development, more detailed study, enhanced planning, and proactive management is needed.
Areas with Water Resource Limitiations
In tributary watersheds with the highest consumptive use,
more mitigation and conservation measures will help reduce human impacts and prevent potential conflicts, as well as ensure water availability for downstream uses.
Watersheds with Highest 2019 Consumptive Use
Watershed Name
Drainage Area (sq. mi.)
2019 Approved CU (mgd)
2019 Reported CU (mgd)
South Branch Codorus Creek
116.8
42.9
17.9
Octoraro Creek
210.3
35.3
18.3
Lower Swatara Creek
571.2
31.8
16.3
Lackawanna River
347.7
26.0
8.0
Tioga River
1,383.1
25.1
5.4
Conestoga River
474.8
20.0
11.9
Bald Eagle Creek
773.2
19.4
7.4
Lower Chenango River
1611.0
17.7
5.5
Lower Conewago Creek
515.6
16.6
7.5
Lycoming Creek
271.9
15.4
4.7
As a key source for some of the Basin's most significant water users,
Conowingo Reservoir will be critical to managing competing demands and environmental flows, particularly
with climate change.
Critical Conowingo Reservoir Elevations
Given potential impacts to Basin water supply,
climate change warrants greater focus on water availability, sustainable allocations,
water conservation, reservoir operations, and
groundwater recharge.
Approximately 7,500 miles of streams remain impaired due to a variety of reasons.
Improvement projects to restore water quality for aquatic life, enhanced recreational opportunities, etc., are a priority.
PADEP Integrated List 2020
Stream Impairment Sources
Impairment Source
Stream Miles (mi)
Stream Miles(%)
Agriculture
3472
7.0
Acid Mine Drainage
1904
3.9
Urban Runoff
709
1.4
Habitat Modification
692
1.4
Atmospheric Deposition
468
0.9
The Commission's Water Quality Index (WQI) Map
compares water quality for Basin watersheds.
Areas with poor WQI scoreswill require restoration plans, best management practices, and projects to improve local water conditions.
Watersheds With Poor Water Quality Scores
There are 6,700 NPDES discharges in the Basin, with both traditional and emerging contaminants.
Enhanced monitoring technologies and
efforts to reduce point source pollution are key to improving water quality.
Climate change may significantly affect Basin water conditions. Proactive solutions include
greater focus on stormwater
management and on restoration and protection of floodplains and riparian buffers.
There are over 330 flood damage reduction projects in the Basin.
Aging infrastructure, landscape modifications, and climate change make their ongoing operation and maintenance a critical need.
Over 5 million people rely on water from the Basin.
Water supply systems are vulnerable to drought, so water loss reduction,
conservation, contingency planning, and backup sources will be important.
Certain watersheds are known to be more prone to drought-related water supply challenges and use conflicts.
Drought mitigation measures are essential to improve low flow management and resiliency.
Knowledge, monitoring capabilities, and data have improved since
the Commission’s 2000 Drought Coordination Plan.
As such, monitoring, early warning, and management techniques and tools need to reflect advancements.
Climate change may increase frequency and intensity of flooding and drought.
Enhanced warning capabilities and stormwater, reservoir, and groundwater management will be critical for community resilience.
Watershed Management
As a key source of groundwater recharge
to aquifers used for water supply,
delineation and protection of critical aquifer recharge areas (CARAs) are essential for sustainable water supply and local baseflow in streams.
Priority Watersheds for Sediment and Nutrient Load Reductions
ID
Watershed Name
Total Nitrogen*
Total Phosphorus*
Suspended Sediment*
1
Choconut Creek - Susquehanna River
22.8
2.4
1574.5
2
West Branch Mahantango Creek
18.7
1.0
1267.4
3
Lower Swatara Creek
21.4
1.1
1111.4
4
Little Swatara Creek
38.8
1.5
1016.1
5
Quittapahilla Creek
30.8
1.8
1033.7
6
Chiques Creek
45.6
2.0
1390.2
7
Cocalico Creek
34.0
1.7
1244.5
8
Conestoga Creek
47.9
2.2
1355.1
9
Little Conestoga Creek
48.3
1.6
1680.6
10
Pequea Creek
47.4
1.9
1630.0
11
East Branch Octoraro Creek
27.4
1.4
1638.4
12
Deer Creek
12.2
0.5
1274.8
*Loads are pounds per acre per year
The Nature Conservancy’s
ecosystem flow recommendations
need to be reflected in water use permitting, reservoir release operations, and mitigation projects to improve environmental flow management and
support aquatic life in the Basin.
The Nature Conservancy Ecosystem Flow Recommendations
Season
Flow Component
Flow Statistic
Flow Recommendations
Headwater Streams < 50 sq. mi.
Streams and small rivers (50-200 sq. mi.)
Major tributaries and mainstream (>200 sq. mi.)
Annual and
Interannual Events
High Flows
Large Flood
Maintain magnitude and frequency of annual Q0.05 (20-yr flood)
Same for all streams
Same for all streams
Small Flood
Maintain magnitude and frequency of annual Q0.2 (5-yr flood)
Same for all streams
Same for all streams
Bankfull
Maintain magnitude and frequency of annual Q0.5 (Approx. 1 to 2-yr flood)
Same for all streams
Same for all streams
All Months
High Flows
Monthly Q10
<10% change to magnitude of monthly Q10
Same for all streams
Same for all streams
Seasonal Flows
Monthly Median
Between 45th and 55th percentiles
Same for all streams
Same for all streams
Monthly Range
≤20% change to area under curve between Q10 and Q75
Same for all streams
Same for all streams
Low Flows
Monthly Low Flow Range
No change to area under curve between Q75 and Q99
≤10% change to area under curve between Q75 and Q99
≤10% change to area under curve between Q75 and Q99
Dam fish passage facilities have been key to native migratory fish restoration efforts.
Ongoing monitoring, adaptive management practices, removal of blockages, and related programs are essential for further progress.
Fish Passage in Susquehanna River Basin and Tributaries
The Basin’s aquatic ecosystem is under constant threat from invasive species.
Advancing monitoring capabilities to support strategies for species control and eradication will be necessary.
Landscape and climate change will require increased focus on capturing and treating runoff.
Best management practices that promote hydrologic resiliency will need to be implemented.
Two cross-cutting themes - 1) Coordination and Outreach to partners and the public, and 2) Technology and Data Analytics - will have important
roles across the four PMAs with expanding water resources management capabilities and effectiveness.
Water Resources Management Plan
The 2021 - 2041 Comprehensive Plan is organized around four PMAs critical to water resources management over the next 20 years:
Two cross-cutting themes - 1) Coordination and Outreach to partners and the public, and 2) Technology and Data Analytics - will have important
roles across the four PMAs with expanding water resources management capabilities and effectiveness.
Framework for Water Resources Management, 2021 - 2041
The sections below present a detailed discussion of each PMA, including a(n):
Summary goal statement for management actions in the Basin
Description of the Commission's vision for the Basin over the next two decades
Description of the current state of the resource and the Commission's role relative to that of its partners
Presentation and discussion of key objectives that the Commission has established through 2041
Set of potential measures that may be used to evaluate progress and results
Because conditions are dynamic and priorities will likely shift at different points over the next 20 years, specific actions to be
taken under each objective are shorter-term in nature. These are covered by the Commission's annual
WATER RESOURCES PROGRAM.
PMA A - Water Supply
Goal - Water supply is sufficient to meet diverse demands.
20-year Vision
All users of the Basin's water resources have reliable, conflict-free, and sustainable water supply for current and future
generations, even as demographic, economic, and climate conditions evolve.
PMA A - Current State
Water supply throughout the Basin is generally adequate to satisfy existing demands. There are specific areas identified as
having competing water uses and/or limited water availability, particularly during droughts. There are also individual water
supply systems and sources with known challenges. Certain regions of the Basin are experiencing increased water demand and
development. Water use information continues to improve. The electric generation and public water supply sectors represent
the largest demands on water supply. Water use limits and mitigation measures help avoid conflicts and impacts to both human
and ecosystem needs. Water conservation and reuse practices have not been implemented as extensively as in other parts of the
country. Aging water infrastructure continues to pose challenges.
Commission Role
Through its planning and regulatory functions, the Commission will continually assess water use and availability conditions
throughout the Basin and review and approve water withdrawal, consumptive use, and diversion projects in a sustainable, equitable,
and efficient manner. The Commission will routinely undertake the planning, development, and implementation of projects to
offset water use impacts and address shortages in water availability. Additionally, the Commission will coordinate with
other regulatory agencies and organizations during both its planning and regulatory functions to avoid duplication of efforts
and work in an efficient and complimentary manner. Lastly, the Commission will enhance outreach efforts to ensure disadvantaged
and underserved communities have the opportunity and ability to provide feedback for management decisions regarding the activities
listed above.
Water supply throughout the Basin is generally adequate to satisfy existing demands. There are specific areas identified as
having competing water uses and/or limited water availability, particularly during droughts. There are also individual water
supply systems and sources with known challenges. Certain regions of the Basin are experiencing increased water demand and
development. Water use information continues to improve. The electric generation and public water supply sectors represent
the largest demands on water supply. Water use limits and mitigation measures help avoid conflicts and impacts to both human
and ecosystem needs. Water conservation and reuse practices have not been implemented as extensively as in other parts of the
country. Aging water infrastructure continues to pose challenges.
Commission Role
Through its planning and regulatory functions, the Commission will continually assess water use and availability conditions
throughout the Basin and review and approve water withdrawal, consumptive use, and diversion projects in a sustainable, equitable,
and efficient manner. The Commission will routinely undertake the planning, development, and implementation of projects to
offset water use impacts and address shortages in water availability. Additionally, the Commission will coordinate with
other regulatory agencies and organizations during both its planning and regulatory functions to avoid duplication of efforts
and work in an efficient and complimentary manner. Lastly, the Commission will enhance outreach efforts to ensure disadvantaged
and underserved communities have the opportunity and ability to provide feedback for management decisions regarding the activities
listed above.
PMA A - Objectives
Increasing use of technology and data analytics will improve the tracking and forecasting of water supply versus demand
conditions to inform planning and regulatory decisions. This will also aid in identifying areas of significant water
use and limited water availability to guide water development, conservation, and mitigation activities.
Increasing efficiency of water withdrawal, consumptive use, and diversion approval processes, from project sponsor preparation through regulatory review and compliance, will help responsibly manage the Basin’s water supply. Incorporating risk-based management and refining evaluation of water availability and use, in order to avoid undesirable impacts on other users and ecosystems, will aid in balancing the conservation and utilization of water resources.
Enhancing water conservation efforts through increased public and industry education and implementation of best practices
and technology will reduce stress on existing water supplies. Supporting increased water reuse and recycling practices
and replacement of aging infrastructure will also increase water supply resiliency and reliability.
Implementing traditional water storage and flow augmentation projects, as well as alternative mitigation methods including water
conservation, groundwater recharge, and water quality improvements, will help offset impacts from reduced water availability
during critical low flow periods.
Providing technical support and resources to local planning agencies regarding water use and availability conditions will
help facilitate the inclusion of water supply considerations in growth planning activities, as well as improve understanding
and responsibility relative to the link between land use decisions and local water resources.
Informing the public and industry of the state of the Basin’s water supply and their role in improving management of water
use and conservation can be enhanced through targeted education and outreach as well as improved access and awareness of data
and relevant guidance information.
PMA A - Success Indicators
Indicators that demonstrate success in achieving Water Supply objectives include, but are not limited to, avoidance of water availability
deficits, increased water conservation and reuse savings, and additional water supply storage and consumptive use mitigation.
PMA B - Water Quality
Goal - Waters throughout the Basin exhibit good quality.
20-year Vision
The waters of the Basin meet or exceed water quality standards and are able to support desired water supply, aquatic life, and recreational uses.
PMA B - Current State
Overall water quality has improved through time and most of the Basin’s waterways fully support water supply, fish consumption, aquatic
life, and recreation. Over 15 percent of the Basin’s waterways are still degraded by agricultural runoff, legacy coal mining impacts,
urban and suburban stormwater runoff, and discharges from combined sewer overflows (CSOs). Additionally, scientific advancements mean
that substances as well as effects, unnoticed in the past, are now seen and their possible risks must be considered. Such recent
threats to water quality include emerging contaminants associated with the use of pharmaceuticals, personal care and cleaning
products, pesticides, and plastics. Increased chloride levels in streams is another water quality issue of concern only beginning to
be fully understood. Climate change also poses an increasing threat to water quality and aquatic habitat.
Commission Role
While the Commission does not regulate water quality, it serves an important role by assisting member agencies, filling gaps, and
pursuing long-term monitoring of waters throughout the Basin. The Commission continuously expands it monitoring activities, both
in context of geography and the range of water quality issues monitored, but also with the innovative use of technology and new
data analysis techniques. With over five decades of data collection, the Commission’s monitoring database is an indispensable
resource for improving stewardship of water resources throughout the Basin. Within the context of this role, the Commission will
also increase efforts to assist disadvantaged and underserved communities understand local water quality conditions and any steps
needed to maintain or restore healthy conditions.
Overall water quality has improved through time and most of the Basin’s waterways fully support water supply, fish consumption, aquatic
life, and recreation. Over 15 percent of the Basin’s waterways are still degraded by agricultural runoff, legacy coal mining impacts,
urban and suburban stormwater runoff, and discharges from combined sewer overflows (CSOs). Additionally, scientific advancements mean
that substances as well as effects, unnoticed in the past, are now seen and their possible risks must be considered. Such recent
threats to water quality include emerging contaminants associated with the use of pharmaceuticals, personal care and cleaning
products, pesticides, and plastics. Increased chloride levels in streams is another water quality issue of concern only beginning to
be fully understood. Climate change also poses an increasing threat to water quality and aquatic habitat.
Commission Role
While the Commission does not regulate water quality, it serves an important role by assisting member agencies, filling gaps, and
pursuing long-term monitoring of waters throughout the Basin. The Commission continuously expands it monitoring activities, both
in context of geography and the range of water quality issues monitored, but also with the innovative use of technology and new
data analysis techniques. With over five decades of data collection, the Commission’s monitoring database is an indispensable
resource for improving stewardship of water resources throughout the Basin. Within the context of this role, the Commission will
also increase efforts to assist disadvantaged and underserved communities understand local water quality conditions and any steps
needed to maintain or restore healthy conditions.
PMA B - Objectives
Improving use of technology, adequate geographic coverage, innovative data analytics, and coordination with key stakeholders will
help improve monitoring techniques, enhance future projections, and better leverage limited resources. Developing an increased
understanding of the changing climate and its influence on the fate and transport of pollutants will better inform restoration
and protection strategies.
Increasing monitoring, assessment, and coordination with state and local agency partners concerning waters classified as having
excellent water quality or use designations requiring special protections will improve water resource conservation by maintaining
focus on preserving high quality stream conditions as surrounding land uses and climate conditions change over time.
Implementing restoration projects in collaboration with partners will help increase the scale and effectiveness of the efforts
needed to restore the Basin’s impaired waterways through leveraging complementary resources. More effective and expansive
implementation will also better support drinking water and other uses, and contribute to a healthier and productive Chesapeake Bay.
Increasing implementation of land and water treatment strategies to address legacy coal mining impacts in collaboration with
external partners will help restore impaired waterways.
Improving water quality promotes recreational use through support of healthy and sustainable waterways that attract fishing and
wildlife viewing, swimming and boating activities, and adds aesthetic value to river communities and the region overall.
Increased access and participation associated with water-based recreation increases stakeholder support for best management
of Basin water resources.
PMA B - Success Indicators
Indicators for success in achieving water quality objectives include, but are not limited to, improving water quality trends and
indicators, fewer contact recreation closures, reduction of stream impairment listings, and increases in waterways under an elevated
protected status.
PMA C - Flooding and Drought
Goal - Communities are more resilient to flooding and drought.
20-year Vision
Basin communities will be prepared for and equipped to mitigate the effects of flooding and drought in a changing climate, minimizing
loss of life and property, economic disruption, and adverse environmental impacts.
PMA C - Current State
The Basin’s topography, climate, and settlement patterns make it prone to recurring riverine flooding and associated
impacts. Recent increases in the frequency of high intensity precipitation events have also elevated flash flooding
concerns. Existing flood control reservoirs, levees, and other structural measures provide flood damage reduction
benefits to local communities. Flood forecast and warning tools continue to improve, particularly for gaged locations
throughout the Basin. Providing comparable products for many ungaged settings and rural communities remains a
challenge, and changing climate patterns and extreme events constantly pose challenges in new areas. Basin hydrologic
conditions continue to reflect a wetter trend since the record droughts of the 1960s. Still, drought conditions in
the early 2000s were significant enough to impact numerous water supply operations. There continue to be advancements
in drought monitoring and forecasting tools, but drought planning and operations in the Basin still primarily rely on
traditional indicators and historic thresholds for initiating drought response actions.
Commission Role
The Commission, in coordination with federal, state, and local partners, will continue to focus on non-structural flood
and drought risk management measures, such as flood inundation mapping and drought management planning, to assist
municipalities and industries in leveraging resources and implementing projects for mitigating the effects of flood
and drought events and facilitating climate change adaptation. The Commission will also increase efforts to ensure
equitable attention to underserved and disadvantaged communities when assessing and working with vulnerable communities.
The Basin’s topography, climate, and settlement patterns make it prone to recurring riverine flooding and associated
impacts. Recent increases in the frequency of high intensity precipitation events have also elevated flash flooding
concerns. Existing flood control reservoirs, levees, and other structural measures provide flood damage reduction
benefits to local communities. Flood forecast and warning tools continue to improve, particularly for gaged locations
throughout the Basin. Providing comparable products for many ungaged settings and rural communities remains a
challenge, and changing climate patterns and extreme events constantly pose challenges in new areas. Basin hydrologic
conditions continue to reflect a wetter trend since the record droughts of the 1960s. Still, drought conditions in
the early 2000s were significant enough to impact numerous water supply operations. There continue to be advancements
in drought monitoring and forecasting tools, but drought planning and operations in the Basin still primarily rely on
traditional indicators and historic thresholds for initiating drought response actions.
Commission Role
The Commission, in coordination with federal, state, and local partners, will continue to focus on non-structural flood
and drought risk management measures, such as flood inundation mapping and drought management planning, to assist
municipalities and industries in leveraging resources and implementing projects for mitigating the effects of flood
and drought events and facilitating climate change adaptation. The Commission will also increase efforts to ensure
equitable attention to underserved and disadvantaged communities when assessing and working with vulnerable communities.
PMA C - Objectives
Assessing regional climate projections and their implications to future hydrologic extremes will improve flood and
drought planning and climate resilience in the Basin.
Working in partnership with communities repeatedly impacted by significant flood events by utilizing a combination of
monitoring data, forecast information, and decision support tools will expand local flood warning and response capabilities.
Collaborating with partner agencies and stakeholders, conduct flood studies and develop flood inundation mapping for
vulnerable communities to improve their assessment of local flood risks and facilitate cost-effective mitigation decisions.
Increasing use of technology and data analytics will advance drought monitoring and early warning capabilities, which
will facilitate increased drought preparedness and inform drought operations and mitigation strategies.
Implementing a combination of water supply alternatives, operational changes, demand modifications, and environmental
and water quality enhancements will improve low flow management and drought resiliency in the Basin.
Increasing agency coordination and outreach to industry and communities regarding flood and drought conditions will
improve understanding of risks associated with flooding and drought, as well as preparedness and mitigation strategies.
PMA C - Success Indicators
Success measures for Flooding and Drought objectives include, for example, improved flood and drought early warning products
that incorporate climate adaptation, more widespread forecast and mitigation coverage, increased water supply storage and
backup sources, better community engagement with institutional resources and partnership opportunities, and reduced flood
and drought damages.
PMA D - Watershed Management
Goal - Watersheds exhibit a healthy and sustainable balance between land and water management.
20-year Vision
Integrated land use and water management practices allow watersheds to function in a natural and sustainable manner to
protect and improve the quantity and quality of water resources in the Basin.
PMA D - Current State
Activities on the surrounding landscape dominantly influence the Basin’s water resources. These influences include both legacy
land use issues such as resource extraction and forest clearing for a variety of purposes, but also present day commercial and
agricultural uses, and urban and suburban growth. The more forested portions of the Basin typically exhibit higher water
quality, while the more developed portions of the Basin impact water quality and aquatic ecosystems, especially where inadequate
management has led to the introduction of pollutants, invasive species, and excessive stormwater runoff. Additionally,
increases to impervious areas from land development reduces infiltration and groundwater recharge, and generally disrupts the
natural hydrologic cycle, which exacerbates conditions during both floods and droughts.
Commission Role
As an interstate coordinating agency, the Commission will continue to work diligently with our federal, state, and local partners
to leverage resources available at all levels to best inform and promote solutions at the land and water management interface
for protection, conservation, restoration, and enhancement of water resources according to science-backed understanding of
processes and development practices that affect water availability, water quality, and aquatic ecosystems across the Susquehanna
River Basin in a seamless and equitable manner.
Activities on the surrounding landscape dominantly influence the Basin’s water resources. These influences include both legacy
land use issues such as resource extraction and forest clearing for a variety of purposes, but also present day commercial and
agricultural uses, and urban and suburban growth. The more forested portions of the Basin typically exhibit higher water
quality, while the more developed portions of the Basin impact water quality and aquatic ecosystems, especially where inadequate
management has led to the introduction of pollutants, invasive species, and excessive stormwater runoff. Additionally,
increases to impervious areas from land development reduces infiltration and groundwater recharge, and generally disrupts the
natural hydrologic cycle, which exacerbates conditions during both floods and droughts.
Commission Role
As an interstate coordinating agency, the Commission will continue to work diligently with our federal, state, and local partners
to leverage resources available at all levels to best inform and promote solutions at the land and water management interface
for protection, conservation, restoration, and enhancement of water resources according to science-backed understanding of
processes and development practices that affect water availability, water quality, and aquatic ecosystems across the Susquehanna
River Basin in a seamless and equitable manner.
PMA D - Objectives
Identifying and promoting protection of open space and other land uses that provide for increased groundwater recharge will
enhance the resiliency of water supply, stream baseflow, and water temperatures. Educating local stakeholders on the value
of reducing impervious surfaces and promoting green infrastructure in their communities improves shared responsibility for
management of the resource as well.
Assisting with state and local implementation of projects and other best management practices will reduce runoff from land
uses contributing to nutrient and sediment pollution, as well as protect forested areas and establish riparian buffers to
offset climate change impacts to cold water habitats. Assessing and tracking anticipated pollutant loading reductions will
also help inform needed adjustments to management strategies required to meet reduction goals.
Collaborating with partner agencies and the regulated community to conduct studies and model opportunities for improving environmental
flows and balancing instream uses by making project improvements and/or modifying operations will help avoid water use conflicts,
support healthy ecosystems, and increase recreational functions.
Promoting, coordinating, and/or implementing measures to provide for passage of migratory fish and eel at Basin hydroelectric dams,
improving habitat connectivity for trout, supporting aquatic
mussel
reintroduction, and other native species measures, will help to
restore Basin aquatic ecosystem conditions overall. Tracking progress regarding occurrence and extent of restored populations will
also assist with adapting best management measures.
Promoting, coordinating, and/or implementing measures for the early detection and reduction of aquatic invasive species within Basin
waterways, and working to eradicate established populations will relieve pressure on native species and enhance aquatic ecosystem
health. Tracking progress regarding occurrence and extent of populations will also assist with adapting best management practices.
Promoting and implementing practices that restore landscape function and limit hydrologic alteration by reducing or mitigating
impacts associated with land development, especially with respect to improving stormwater management practices will enhance
preservation/restoration of critical hydrologic features such as wetlands, floodplains, and forest cover/buffers, to best preserve
and sustain groundwater and surface water resources.
PMA D - Success Indicators
Indicators for demonstrating success in mitigating land use and human activity impacts may include, but not be limited to,
more unaltered flow regimes, reduced stormwater generated pollutant loads, reduced occurrence/extent of invasive species,
reestablishment of native species to historic ranges, and increased reforestation along streams.
Many projects and facilities are required for planning, development, conservation, utilization, management, and control of the Basin’s water
resources now and in the future. They include projects subject to review and approval in accordance with
COMMISSION REGULATIONS
and other water resources projects and facilities that meet a set of
DEFINED CRITERIA
Projects and Facilities
Projects and Facilities
Many projects and facilities are required for planning, development, conservation, utilization, management, and control of the Basin’s water
resources now and in the future. They include projects subject to review and approval in accordance with
COMMISSION REGULATIONS
and other water resources projects and facilities that meet a set of
DEFINED CRITERIA
Commission Criteria for Projects and Facilities
Commission’s regulations and other water resources projects and facilities that meet the following criteria:
The project or facility is aligned with the powers and duties of the Commission outlined in the Compact.
The project or facility is required to meet present and future water resources needs of the Basin.
The project or facility may have a significant effect on Basin water resources, interstate waters, or receiving waters of the Chesapeake Bay.
The project or facility is compatible with the visions, goals, and objectives contained in the Comprehensive Plan.
The project or facility is developed in support of the
Water Resources Program (WRP)
and sponsored by the Commission or a partner agency.
Projects requiring Commission review and approval will be included in the Comprehensive Plan after formal action is taken at Commission
business meetings. They are accessible via the Commission’s
Water Application and Approval Viewer (WAAV)
Non-Commission regulated projects and facilities, sponsored by the Commission and partner agencies, that meet the criteria outlined above will be
incorporated in the Comprehensive Plan. They are listed in this
inventory of projects and facilities
that will be maintained and refreshed on a regular basis.
The Commission relies on a variety of other projects and facilities to carry out its water resources management mission. While not necessarily
regulated or sponsored by the Commission, these amenities are essential to achieving many of the goals and objectives contained in the
Comprehensive Plan. They are also included in the
inventory of projects and facilities.
The Commission’s annual WATER RESOURCES PROGRAM (WRP)
is the implementation vehicle for this Comprehensive Plan. The WRP is effectively an action plan for pursuing Comprehensive Plan goals and objectives. It defines the key projects the Commission and its partners propose to initiate in the near term or currently have underway given conditions, priorities, and water resources management needs. The WRP drives the Commission’s yearly capital and current expense budget, with project cost estimates and expected sources of funding. Execution of each successive WRP addresses contemporary and emerging challenges, and advances efforts to realize the vision for each Comprehensive Plan PMA.
Implementation
The Commission’s annual WATER RESOURCES PROGRAM (WRP)
is the implementation vehicle for this Comprehensive Plan. The WRP is effectively an action plan for pursuing Comprehensive Plan goals and objectives. It defines the key projects the Commission and its partners propose to initiate in the near term or currently have underway given conditions, priorities, and water resources management needs. The WRP drives the Commission’s yearly capital and current expense budget, with project cost estimates and expected sources of funding. Execution of each successive WRP addresses contemporary and emerging challenges, and advances efforts to realize the vision for each Comprehensive Plan PMA.
