Broad Creek (Bogue Sound) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Broad Creek |
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 Location of Broad Creek mouth
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| Other name(s) | Tributary to Bogue Sound |
| Country | United States |
| State | North Carolina |
| County | Carteret |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | confluence of East and West Prongs of Broad Creek Broad Creek, North Carolina 0 ft (0 m) 34°48′06″N 076°29′24″W / 34.80167°N 76.49000°W |
| River mouth | Bogue Sound Broad Creek, North Carolina 0 ft (0 m) 34°47′57″N 076°29′12″W / 34.79917°N 76.48667°W |
| Length | 0.76 mi (1.22 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Broad → Bogue → Atlantic Ocean |
| River system | White Oak River |
| Basin size | 6.28 square miles (16.3 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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Broad Creek is a small waterway in North Carolina, United States. It flows near the community also named Broad Creek, North Carolina. This creek is important because it connects to Bogue Sound, which then leads to the Atlantic Ocean.
Contents
Discover Broad Creek: A North Carolina Waterway
Broad Creek is a fascinating part of the natural landscape in Carteret County. It's not a huge river, but it plays a key role in the local environment. Think of it as a natural pathway for water.
Where Does Broad Creek Flow?
Broad Creek starts when two smaller streams, called the East Prong and West Prong of Broad Creek, join together. From there, it flows for about 0.76 miles (1.22 kilometers). That's not very long, but every bit of a waterway is important!
Journey to the Ocean
The creek's journey ends when it empties into Bogue Sound. Bogue Sound is a body of water that is mostly enclosed, but it has openings to the Atlantic Ocean. These openings are found between Bogue Banks, which are part of North Carolina's barrier islands. Barrier islands are long, narrow islands that protect the mainland from ocean storms.
Broad Creek's Natural Neighbors
Broad Creek is special because it also runs through the Croatan National Forest. This forest is a large area of protected land filled with unique plants and animals.
The Croatan National Forest Connection
Being part of the Croatan National Forest means Broad Creek is surrounded by a rich ecosystem. This area is home to many different kinds of wildlife, including birds, fish, and other creatures that depend on the creek for water and habitat. It's a great place for nature lovers!
Why Broad Creek Matters
Even though Broad Creek is small, it's a vital part of the local water system. It helps carry fresh water from the land into Bogue Sound. This mix of fresh and saltwater creates a special environment called an estuary.
Estuaries: Nature's Nurseries
Estuaries, like the area where Broad Creek meets Bogue Sound, are often called "nurseries of the sea." Many young fish, crabs, and other marine animals grow up in these protected waters before heading out to the open ocean. Broad Creek helps support this important natural process.
Supporting Local Life
The creek also provides a natural resource for the community of Broad Creek. It's a place where people can enjoy nature, and it contributes to the overall health of the environment in Carteret County.
