Bunch Creek facts for kids
Bunch Creek is a small stream located in Placer County, California, in the United States. It's like a smaller river that flows into a bigger one. Bunch Creek is a "tributary" (meaning it feeds into) the North Fork of the American River. These two waterways meet, or "confluence," to the east at about 920 feet (280 meters) above sea level. As Bunch Creek flows towards the American River, it travels through a place called Bunch Canyon.
The water in Bunch Creek is very clear, meaning it has "low turbidity" (not cloudy or muddy). It also doesn't have any strange smells. In 1989, a survey found that people were catching trout in the creek, which shows it's a healthy environment for fish!
History of Bunch Creek and Colfax
Bunch Creek played an important role in the history of the nearby town of Colfax, California. During the exciting time of the California Gold Rush in the mid-1800s, many people came to this area looking for gold.
How Illinoistown Became Colfax
Miners and trappers exploring Placer County discovered a good spot along Bunch Creek. This area was usually below the snow line, making it easier to live and work there. This settlement was first called Illinoistown. As more and more people came to mine for gold, the camp grew bigger. It soon became a small village with stores, places to eat and drink, and companies that moved goods. This growing settlement eventually became known as Colfax.
- Earth Metrics Inc, "Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, Bunch Creek Shopping Center, Colfax, California", printed in San Mateo, Ca., Document File Number 7928W0, May 16, 1989
