Deer Creek (Tulare County, California) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Deer Creek |
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 Location of the mouth within California
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| Other name(s) | More's Creek |
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| Region | Tulare County |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | source on the west slope of the Greenhorn Mountains, in the Sierra Nevada Mountain range, Tulare County 7,560 ft (2,300 m) 35°54′10″N 118°34′13″W / 35.90278°N 118.57028°W |
| River mouth | mouth terminates at the Lakeland and Homeland Canals in the San Joaquin Valley, Tulare County 203 ft (62 m) 35°56′05″N 119°28′23″W / 35.93472°N 119.47306°W |
Deer Creek is a natural waterway located in Tulare County, California. It used to be known as More's Creek. This creek starts high up in the mountains and flows west, bringing water to the San Joaquin Valley.
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What is Deer Creek?
Deer Creek is a small stream or creek that plays an important role in its local area. It carries water from the mountains down to the valley. This water is very important for agriculture, which means farming.
Where Does it Start and End?
Deer Creek begins its journey in the Greenhorn Mountains. These mountains are part of the larger Sierra Nevada Mountain range in California. The starting point, called the source, is about 7,560 feet high.
The creek then flows west across Tulare County. It ends in the San Joaquin Valley. Its natural end used to be Tulare Lake. However, the creek's path was changed a long time ago.
Why Was its Path Changed?
Today, Deer Creek does not flow into Tulare Lake anymore. Instead, it ends at two man-made waterways. These are the Lakeland and Homeland Canals. Canals are like artificial rivers built to move water. The water from Deer Creek is now used for farming in the valley. This change helps farmers grow crops in the dry climate.
The Journey of Deer Creek
Deer Creek travels a long way from its mountain source. It passes through different types of land. This journey helps to support local plants and animals.
From Mountains to Valley
When Deer Creek starts, it is a fast-flowing mountain stream. As it leaves the Greenhorn Mountains, it enters the San Joaquin Valley. The valley is much flatter and warmer. Here, the creek slows down.
Water for Farming
The San Joaquin Valley is a major farming area. It needs a lot of water to grow fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Creeks like Deer Creek provide this vital water. The water is diverted into canals. These canals then carry the water to farms. This system helps California produce much of the nation's food.
Fun Facts About Creeks
- Creeks are smaller than rivers. They are natural channels for water flow.
- The word "creek" can mean a small stream or a narrow inlet of the sea.
- Creeks often support a lot of wildlife. They provide water and habitats for many animals.
- Many creeks, like Deer Creek, have been changed by humans. This is often to help with farming or to prevent floods.
