Uploaded on 2016-03-30 by chenray

In DC, drinking water comes from the Potomac River. Source: [DC Water][1] ![Great Falls][2] This is a photo of the beautiful Great Falls during the winter time. Great Falls is upstream of DC along the Potomac River. It is one of the DC area's greatest attractions, a natural getaway within 30 minutes from the city. b. Regulating services The ecosystem improves the local climate and air quality. Trees provide shade and remove pollution from the air. Vegetation also prevents soil erosion and helps maintain soil fertility. Livability is positively affected by the abundance of vegetation. ![MD][3] Here is a photo of MD from the sky. This is north of DC by about 1 hour, so the city is nowhere in sight. However, the DC metro area still includes regions of mature vegetation. c. Habitat or Supporting services The local government attempts to preserve ecosystems and tries to incorporate them into the quickly urbanizing area. These ecosystems allow habitation for species. Humans and animals can live in harmony and together. ![ducks][4] This is a pond/marshy area that gets water from the Potomac River. As seen, these animals are enjoying the ecosystem, even though it is located in a fairly densely populated region. d. Cultural services There are many cultural services in the DC region. In the above photo, Great Falls is an ecosystem that provides cultural services for recreation, and physical and mental health. DC also has many preserved nature areas, museums and historic sites. ![cherry blossoms][5] At this time of year, a man-influenced ecosystem is the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin. It provides all the listed cultural services. It provides recreation and mental and physical health since it is a national attraction that allows you to walk around and enjoy the fresh air. This is a huge tourist attraction. The cherry blossoms blooming is very often photographed since many can appreciate its aesthetics. They are also an inspiration to art and culture since they are not only beautiful to see, but also that they were a gift from Japan. These can also provide a spiritual experience, as long as you don't get too disturbed by the amount of tourists and people that flock to this event. [1]: https://www.dcwater.com/drinking_water/about.cfm [2]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14593044503719662.jpg [3]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14593055406820594.jpg [4]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/145930577283617.jpg [5]: https://edxuploads.s3.amazonaws.com/14593062548299942.jpg