Chemung River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chemung River |
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The Chemung River at Elmira, New York
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| Country | United States |
| State | New York, Pennsylvania |
| Counties | Steuben, NY, Chemung, NY, Bradford, PA |
| Cities | Corning, Elmira |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Tioga River Armenia Township 41°45′40″N 76°51′39″W / 41.76111°N 76.86083°W |
| 2nd source | Cohocton River Tabor Corners 42°39′26″N 77°31′56″W / 42.65722°N 77.53222°W |
| River mouth | Susquehanna River Sayre, PA 722 ft (220 m) 41°55′19″N 76°30′56″W / 41.92194°N 76.51556°W |
| Length | 46 mi (74 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 2,506 sq mi (6,490 km2) |
The Chemung River ( shə-MUNG) is an important river in the United States. It flows through parts of New York State and Pennsylvania. This river is about 46 miles (74 kilometers) long.
The Chemung River is a tributary of the Susquehanna River. A tributary is a smaller river or stream that flows into a larger river. The Chemung River helps drain a hilly area known as the Allegheny Plateau. This region is in the southern part of New York.
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Discover the Chemung River
The Chemung River is a natural landmark. It plays a role in the geography of the region. Understanding rivers helps us learn about the land around us.
Where Does the Chemung River Start?
The Chemung River actually begins when two other rivers meet. These are the Tioga River and the Cohocton River.
- The Tioga River starts in Armenia Township, Pennsylvania.
- The Cohocton River starts near Tabor Corners, New York.
These two rivers join together near a place called Painted Post, New York. This is where the Chemung River officially begins its journey.
Where Does the Chemung River Flow?
After forming at Painted Post, the Chemung River flows generally eastward. It passes through several important towns and cities.
- In New York, it flows through Corning and Elmira.
- It then crosses into northern Pennsylvania.
Finally, the Chemung River empties into the Susquehanna River. This happens near Sayre, Pennsylvania. The Susquehanna River is one of the longest rivers on the East Coast.
How Big Is the Chemung River?
The Chemung River is about 46 miles (74 kilometers) long. It's not the longest river, but it's important for the areas it flows through. The river's basin, which is the land area that drains into it, covers about 2,506 square miles (6,490 square kilometers).
Water Flow in the Chemung River
The amount of water in the Chemung River can change a lot.
- On average, about 2,623 cubic feet (74 cubic meters) of water flow past a point each second.
- During very dry times, the flow can be much lower.
- After heavy rains or snowmelt, the river can carry a lot more water. This can sometimes lead to floods.
Why Is the Chemung River Important?
The Chemung River has been important to people for a long time.
- It provides water for the communities along its banks.
- It supports local wildlife and ecosystems.
- Historically, rivers like the Chemung were used for transportation and trade.
Today, the river is also a place for outdoor activities. People might enjoy fishing or simply observing nature along its banks.
