The term for the area of land drained by a river is called a watershed. A watershed encompasses all the land where water drains into a common waterway, such as a river, lake, or ocean. This geographic and hydrological unit is crucial for understanding water flow, management, and conservation efforts. Watersheds vary in size and can include multiple tributaries that converge into a larger body of water. Protecting watersheds is vital for maintaining water quality, supporting biodiversity, and managing flood risks. Effective watershed management supports sustainable use of water resources for communities, agriculture, and ecosystems.