Environment

=**ENVIRONMENT OF WATAUGA**=

At more than 1,900 feet above sea level, Watauga holds the distinction of being the highest reservoir in the Tennessee River system. The reservoir is managed for many uses, including flood damage reduction, power generation, water quality, and aquatic ecology. Surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest and flanked by the Appalachian Mountains, Watauga Reservoir is one of the most scenic in the Tennessee River watershed. It offers access to the Appalachian Trail. Below Watauga Dam is a wildlife observation area where visitors have a chance to view unique species of waterfowl. The Watauga River tailwater begins just below Wilbur Dam, in Elizabethton, TN. The stream is well known for its trophy rainbow and brown trout fishing. The upper section offers some public access, for wading. However, most of the trophy section is only accessible by boat. Within its 16 miles of fishable trout water, the Watauga River has one of the only stretches of water designated as a trophy section in the state of Tennessee. The trophy section is subject to special regulations which are strictly enforced by region four of the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency.


 * Air Quality Index (AQI) level in 2010 was** 32.8**. This is about average.**
 * **City:** || 32.8 ||
 * **U.S.:** || 32.0 ||
 * Lead (Pb) [µ/m3] level in 2009 was** 0.0302**. This is worse than average.** **Closest monitor was 11.0 miles away from the city center.**
 * **City:** || 0.0302 ||
 * **U.S.:** || 0.0222 ||
 * Particulate Matter (PM2.5) [µ/m3] level in 2010 was** 9.92**. This is about average.** **Closest monitor was 17.6 miles away from the city center.**
 * **City:** || 9.92 ||
 * **U.S.:** || 9.59 ||

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