This study was conducted to compare water properties in an agricultural watershed with those in an urban watershed. Two watersheds each draining approximately 4 hectares were chosen. Each drainage area included a major source of constant flow from underground springs and a man-made reservoir (~ 1 hectare). Sites selected for measurement were chosen by flow rate and distance from the water source. Assessments of dissolved oxygen, pH, and temperature were determined using a YSI 85 meter. The membrane filter method was used to determine levels of fecal coliform populations. In both watersheds, temperature was constant near the water source and became variable with distance. Dissolved oxygen increased in areas with reduced flow. Over time, specific sites within the agricultural watershed showed more significant change in pH (P<.05) than the urban watershed. Fecal coliform populations were higher in the agricultural watershed reflecting the influence of animal waste. Differences in water properties were mainly due to distance from a water source and flow velocity.