Badger Creek (Houston County, Minnesota) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Badger Creek |
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 Mouth of Badger Creek
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| Country | United States |
| State | Minnesota |
| County | Houston |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 43°39′37″N 91°30′43″W / 43.6602778°N 91.5119444°W |
| River mouth | 43°44′15″N 91°33′19″W / 43.7374667°N 91.5551426°W |
| Basin features | |
| River system | South Fork Root River |
| Tributaries |
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Badger Creek is a small stream located in Houston County, which is in the state of Minnesota in the United States. It flows into the South Fork Root River, joining it just east of the town of Houston, Minnesota. This creek got its name because badgers used to be very common in this area.
Where is Badger Creek Located?
Badger Creek is found in the southeastern part of Minnesota. This region is known as the Driftless Area. The Driftless Area is special because it was not flattened by glaciers during the last Ice Age. This means it has unique hills, valleys, and many cool, clear streams like Badger Creek.
Why is it Called Badger Creek?
The name "Badger Creek" is quite simple! Long ago, when settlers first came to this part of Minnesota, they saw many badgers living near the stream. Badgers are burrowing animals known for their strong claws and digging abilities. So, the creek was named after these interesting creatures that made the area their home.
What Lives in Badger Creek? (Fish Habitat)
Badger Creek is a great place for fish! The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has found many different kinds of fish living here. Some of the most common fish you might find include:
- Brown trout
- Brook trout
- White sucker
- Creek chub
- Different types of dace (like southern redbelly dace and blacknose dace)
- Minnows (such as bluntnose minnow and fathead minnow)
- Various darters (like Johnny darter and fantail darter)
The creek is especially known for its trout. To make the creek even better for fish, people worked on improving the habitat in 1970. This work helped create healthier places for fish to live, feed, and reproduce, especially in the upper parts of the creek. This makes Badger Creek an important spot for local wildlife and fishing.
