Crooked Creek (Illinois) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Crooked Creek |
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|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Marion County east of Alma, Illinois |
| River mouth | Confluence with the Kaskaskia north of Springfield, Illinois |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Crooked Creek → Kaskaskia → Mississippi → Gulf of Mexico |
Crooked Creek is a small river, also known as a "tributary," that flows into the larger Kaskaskia River in the state of Illinois, USA. It's like a smaller stream joining a bigger one. Eventually, its water travels all the way to the Mississippi River and then to the Gulf of Mexico!
Where Crooked Creek Flows
Crooked Creek begins its journey in Marion County, which is in the central part of Illinois. It starts near a town called Alma.
As it flows, the creek enters Clinton County. For a part of its path, it even forms a natural border between Clinton County and Washington County. After this, Crooked Creek finally empties its water into the Kaskaskia River.
Water for Centralia
Crooked Creek is important because it helps drain the city of Centralia. This means it collects rainwater and other runoff from the city.
The creek also receives water from two important lakes that serve Centralia: Lake Centralia and Raccoon Lake. These lakes are like big storage tanks for water, and when they release water, it flows into Crooked Creek.
Why Creeks and Rivers are Important
Creeks and rivers like Crooked Creek are super important for many reasons!
- They provide water for cities and towns.
- They are home to many different kinds of plants and animals.
- They help shape the land over time.
- They can be places for fun activities like fishing or boating.
