What does surface water refer to?

Surface water refers specifically to water that is found on the surface of the earth in various bodies, including lakes, rivers, ponds, and streams. This definition encompasses any naturally occurring water that is open to the atmosphere, which is crucial for ecosystems, recreation, and water supply.

While underground water and aquifers are significant sources of freshwater, they fall under the category of subsurface water, not surface water. Similarly, water in soil or wet conditions is related to soil moisture and does not pertain to the bodies of water that are visible and present above ground. Thus, the classification of surface water is accurately embodied in the description of water that resides in lakes, rivers, and other above-ground bodies.