Barrier River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Barrier River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | New Zealand |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | Pyke River about 30 m (98 ft) |
The Barrier River is a cool river found in the beautiful Mount Aspiring National Park in New Zealand. It's located at the very bottom of the West Coast Region, which is on the South Island. This river is a "tributary" of the Pyke River. A tributary is like a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one. The Barrier River joins the Pyke River about 1 kilometer (or 0.6 miles) south of a place called Lake Wilmot.
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What is the Barrier River?
The Barrier River is a natural waterway that carries water from high up in the mountains down towards larger rivers and eventually the sea. Rivers are super important because they provide water for plants and animals, and they help shape the land around them. The Barrier River gets its water from some very cold and icy places!
Where Does the Water Come From?
The Barrier River is special because it's fed by three different glaciers and large areas of ice. Imagine huge, slow-moving rivers of ice! These icy sources melt, and their water flows into the Barrier River, making it a fresh and clear waterway.
- Demon Gap Icefall (North Branch): This is one of the main sources for the northern part of the river. An icefall is like a frozen waterfall, where a glacier flows over a steep drop.
- Silver Glacier (via Silver Stream): The Silver Glacier also contributes water. Its meltwater flows through a smaller stream called Silver Stream before joining the Barrier River between its main branches.
- Barrier Ice Stream (South Branch): This is another big icy source for the southern part of the river. An ice stream is a part of an ice sheet or glacier that flows much faster than the ice around it.
Why are Glaciers Important for Rivers?
Glaciers act like giant natural water tanks. They store a lot of fresh water as ice, especially during colder months or years. Then, as the weather gets warmer, the ice melts slowly, releasing water into rivers like the Barrier River. This steady supply of meltwater is vital for keeping the river flowing, especially during dry seasons when there might not be much rain.
The Environment Around the River
The Barrier River flows through Mount Aspiring National Park. This park is a wild and stunning place, full of towering mountains, deep valleys, and lush forests. It's part of a larger area called Te Wāhipounamu – South West New Zealand, which is a World Heritage Site. This means it's recognized globally for its incredible natural beauty and importance.
The park is home to many unique plants and animals. The river itself provides a habitat for various fish and insects, and the surrounding forests are filled with native birds. Exploring areas like the Barrier River helps us understand and appreciate the amazing natural world of New Zealand.
