Clearwater River (Red Lake River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Clearwater River |
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|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| State | Minnesota |
| Region | Red River Valley |
| Cities | Bagley, Minnesota, Plummer, Minnesota, Red Lake Falls, Minnesota |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Western Clearwater County, Minnesota 1,440 ft (440 m) |
| River mouth | Red Lake River Red Lake Falls, Minnesota 955 ft (291 m) |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Nelson River basin |
| Basin size | 1,385 sq mi (3,590 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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The Clearwater River is a 147-mile-long (237 km) river in Minnesota, United States. It's like a smaller stream that flows into a bigger one called the Red Lake River. Eventually, its water travels through the Red River of the North and Lake Winnipeg. Finally, it reaches the Nelson River and flows into Hudson Bay in Canada.
The name "Clearwater" is an English translation of the native Ojibwe language name. This suggests that the water in the river was very clear.
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About the Clearwater River
The Clearwater River is an important natural feature in northwestern Minnesota. It flows through a region known as the Red River Valley. This valley is famous for its flat land and rich soil. The river helps shape the landscape as it travels.
The river's journey takes it past several towns. These include Bagley, Minnesota, Plummer, Minnesota, and Red Lake Falls, Minnesota. Rivers often play a big role in where towns are built.
Where Does the Clearwater River Start and End?
Every river has a beginning and an end. The Clearwater River starts in western Clearwater County, Minnesota. This area is about 1,440 ft (440 m) above sea level. Imagine standing on a hill that high!
From its source, the river flows generally west. It travels for about 147-mile (237 km) across Minnesota. Its journey ends when it joins the Red Lake River. This meeting point is near the city of Red Lake Falls, Minnesota. At this spot, the river is about 955 ft (291 m) above sea level.
How Big is the Clearwater River?
The Clearwater River is 147-mile (237 km) long. That's a pretty long distance for a river! It's long enough to connect many different areas of Minnesota.
The river also has a large drainage area. This area is called its "basin." The Clearwater River basin covers about 1,385 sq mi (3,590 km2). A river basin is all the land where water flows into that river. Think of it like a giant funnel that collects rainwater and sends it to the river.
What Rivers Join the Clearwater River?
Smaller streams and rivers that flow into a larger river are called "tributaries." The Clearwater River has several tributaries that add water to it. These smaller rivers help make the Clearwater River bigger and stronger.
Some of the tributaries that join the Clearwater River from the left side (if you're looking downstream) include:
- Ruffy Brook
- Lost River
- Terrebonne Creek
- Beau Gerlot Creek
- Lower Badger Creek
On the right side, some tributaries are:
- Walker Brook
- Butcher Knife Creek
These smaller waterways are important. They bring water from a wider area into the main river.
Why is the Clearwater River Important?
Rivers like the Clearwater River are very important for many reasons. They provide homes for fish and other wildlife. They also supply water for plants and animals along their banks.
Historically, rivers were like natural highways. They helped people travel and transport goods. Today, rivers are still used for recreation. People might enjoy fishing, boating, or simply watching the water flow by. The Clearwater River is a valuable part of Minnesota's natural environment.
