Cow Creek (Jordan Creek tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cow Creek |
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Location of the mouth of Cow Creek in Oregon
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| Country | United States |
| State | Idaho |
| County | Owyhee County, Idaho and Malheur County, Oregon |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | near De Lamar, Owyhee County, Idaho 7,048 ft (2,148 m) 43°04′23″N 116°50′23″W / 43.07306°N 116.83972°W |
| River mouth | Jordan Creek Danner, Malheur County, Oregon 4,216 ft (1,285 m) 42°56′51″N 117°20′38″W / 42.94750°N 117.34389°W |
| Length | 51 mi (82 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 330 sq mi (850 km2) |
Cow Creek is a stream that flows for about 51 miles (82 kilometers) in the western United States. It is a branch, or tributary, of Jordan Creek. This creek starts in Idaho and then flows into Oregon.
Where Cow Creek Begins and Ends
Cow Creek starts high up in the mountains of Owyhee County, Idaho. This starting point, called the source, is near a place called De Lamar, Idaho. The elevation there is very high, about 7,048 feet (2,148 meters) above sea level.
The creek then flows west and south, eventually reaching its mouth in Malheur County, Oregon. The mouth is where Cow Creek joins Jordan Creek, near the town of Danner, Oregon. At this point, the elevation is much lower, around 4,216 feet (1,285 meters).
Understanding the Watershed
Every river and creek has a watershed, which is like a giant bowl or basin. All the rain and snow that falls within this area eventually flows into that specific river or creek. Cow Creek has a watershed that covers about 330 square miles (850 square kilometers).
This means that all the water from a large area, including hills, valleys, and smaller streams, drains into Cow Creek. The health of the watershed is very important for the plants and animals that live in and around the creek.
Why Rivers and Creeks are Important
Rivers and creeks like Cow Creek are vital parts of our natural world. They provide homes for many different kinds of fish, insects, and other wildlife. The water from these streams also supports plants along their banks, creating green areas even in dry regions.
For people, rivers can be a source of water for farming or simply beautiful places to explore. Protecting watersheds helps keep our water clean and ensures that these natural habitats can thrive for many years to come.
