Which of the following best describes a watershed?

A watershed is defined as an area of land where all the water that falls as precipitation drains into a common outlet, such as a river, bay, or lake. This concept is essential in hydrology and environmental management because it recognizes the interconnectedness of water systems and the impact of land use on water quality and availability. By understanding a watershed, various stakeholders can manage resources, develop conservation strategies, and address issues related to water pollution effectively.

The other options do not accurately summarize the function of a watershed. A geographical region with no outlet for water flow describes a closed basin rather than a watershed, which is characterized by its ability to convey water to a specific discharge point. A system of interconnected lakes and streams may exist within a watershed, but it does not fully encapsulate the concept of a watershed itself, which is broader and includes all the surrounding land that drains into those water bodies. Finally, describing a floodplain used to prevent water accumulation mischaracterizes the function of both floodplains and watersheds; floodplains are typically associated with overflow from rivers, while watersheds encompass a much larger area involved in the overall drainage process.