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Federally unprotected streams contribute most of the water to U.S. rivers

The first-of-its-kind analysis underscores the potential fallout of a Supreme Court ruling

A photograph of a small stream. The sunset is reflecting on the water, making it look orange, and medium-sized rocks are sticking through the surface.

Ephemeral streams like this one in Dixie National Forest in Utah flow only when it rains. The waterways, which are not federally protected under the Clean Water Act, contribute more than half of the water to U.S. rivers, new research finds.

Marc Solomon/Photodisc/Getty Images

By Claire Yuan

The dry-looking stream in your backyard may play a major role in feeding U.S.