Deep Creek (Nanticoke River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Deep Creek |
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Location of Deep Creek mouth
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| Other name(s) | Tributary to Nanticoke River |
| Country | United States |
| State | Delaware |
| County | Sussex |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | divide between Deep Creek and Broadkill River in Redden State Forest Redden Crossroads, Delaware 42 ft (13 m) 38°44′01″N 075°25′11″W / 38.73361°N 75.41972°W |
| River mouth | Nanticoke River Seaford, Delaware 0 ft (0 m) 38°44′39″N 075°35′18″W / 38.74417°N 75.58833°W |
| Length | 14.0 mi (22.5 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | southwest |
| River system | Nanticoke River |
| Basin size | 64.87 square miles (168.0 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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| Waterbodies | Concord Pond |
Deep Creek is a small but important waterway in Delaware, United States. It's like a natural stream that flows for about 14 miles (22.5 kilometers). This creek is a tributary, which means it's a smaller river or stream that flows into a larger one. Deep Creek eventually joins the Nanticoke River.
Contents
Where Does Deep Creek Begin and End?
Deep Creek has a clear starting point and a specific end point. Understanding these helps us trace its journey.
The Source: Where Deep Creek Starts
Deep Creek begins in an area called Redden Crossroads in Sussex County, Delaware. This spot is part of the Redden State Forest. It's a pretty low elevation, only about 42 feet (13 meters) above sea level. This starting point is where the water first gathers to form the creek.
The Mouth: Where Deep Creek Ends
After its journey, Deep Creek flows into the Nanticoke River. This meeting point is near the town of Seaford, Delaware. At this spot, the creek is at sea level, meaning it's right at the same height as the ocean. The Nanticoke River then continues its path towards the Chesapeake Bay.
How Big is Deep Creek?
Rivers and creeks can be measured in different ways, like their length and how much water they carry.
Length and Flow
Deep Creek stretches for about 14 miles (22.5 kilometers). As it flows, it generally moves towards the southwest. This direction helps guide its water towards the Nanticoke River. The amount of water flowing in Deep Creek averages about 78.25 cubic feet per second (2.22 cubic meters per second) where it meets the Nanticoke River. This measurement tells us how much water passes a certain point each second.
The River Basin
Every river has a basin, which is the entire area of land where all the rain and snowmelt drain into that river or its tributaries. Deep Creek's basin covers about 64.87 square miles (168 square kilometers). This large area collects water that eventually feeds into the creek.
What Are Deep Creek's Branches?
Just like a tree has branches, a river often has smaller streams that flow into it. These are called tributaries.
Main Tributaries
Deep Creek has several important tributaries that add water to its flow. On its left side, some of these include:
- Mifflin Ditch
- McColleys Branch
- Rum Bridge Branch
- Tyndall Branch
- Baker Mill Branch
- Tubbs Branch
There are also other smaller, unnamed streams that join Deep Creek from its right side. All these branches help to collect water from the surrounding land and bring it into the main creek.
Water Bodies Along the Way
Along its path, Deep Creek also connects with other water bodies. One notable one is Concord Pond. Ponds and lakes can be important parts of a river system, sometimes storing water or providing habitats for wildlife.
