Alder Creek (Beaver Kill tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Alder Creek |
|
---|---|
Country | United States |
State | New York |
Physical characteristics | |
Main source | Ulster County, New York |
River mouth | Beaver Kill Turnwood, New York, Ulster County, New York, United States 42°01′46″N 74°42′23.5″W / 42.02944°N 74.706528°W |
Basin features | |
Basin size | 6.16 sq mi (16.0 km2) |
Alder Creek is a small waterway located in New York State, United States. It flows through Ulster County, New York and eventually joins a larger stream called Beaver Kill. This meeting point is near Turnwood, New York.
Contents
What is Alder Creek?
A creek is a small stream, often smaller than a river. Alder Creek is one of these smaller waterways. It plays an important role in the local environment. Its water comes from rain and melting snow.
Where Does it Flow?
Alder Creek starts in Ulster County, New York. This is its "source." From there, it travels through the land. It flows until it reaches its "mouth." The mouth is where it empties into another body of water. For Alder Creek, this is the Beaver Kill. The area of land that drains into Alder Creek is called its basin. Alder Creek's basin covers about 6.16 square miles.
Why are Creeks Important?
Creeks like Alder Creek are very important for many reasons. They are a key part of the natural world. They help keep the environment healthy.
Home for Wildlife
Creeks provide a home for many different animals. Fish, insects, and small creatures live in the water. Birds and other animals visit the creek to drink. The plants along the creek banks also offer shelter.
Water for Nature
Creeks carry fresh water across the land. This water is vital for plants and trees. It helps them grow and thrive. Creeks also help to keep the soil moist. This supports the entire ecosystem around them.
Journey of a Creek
Every creek has a journey from its beginning to its end. This journey shapes the land it flows through. It also connects different parts of the environment.
From Source to Mouth
Alder Creek begins in Ulster County. This is its highest point. As it flows, it moves downhill. It picks up speed and sometimes carves out small valleys. Its journey ends when it joins the Beaver Kill. The Beaver Kill then flows into the Delaware River. This means Alder Creek is part of a much larger river system.
Protecting Our Waterways
It is important to keep creeks like Alder Creek clean. Pollution can harm the animals and plants that live there. It can also affect the water quality for other uses. Protecting our waterways helps keep our planet healthy.