Deer River (Mississippi River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Deer River |
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 Mouth of the Deer River
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| Country | United States |
| State | Minnesota |
| County | Itasca County |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Little Bowstring Lake 47°23′20″N 93°42′28″W / 47.388835°N 93.7077116°W |
| River mouth | Deer River, Minnesota 47°18′53″N 93°46′46″W / 47.3146709°N 93.7793843°W |
The Deer River is a river located in the state of Minnesota, in the United States. It is an important waterway that flows into the mighty Mississippi River. This means the Deer River is a "tributary" – a smaller river or stream that flows into a larger one.
Where is the Deer River Located?
The Deer River is found in Itasca County, which is in the northern part of Minnesota. It starts near a place called Little Bowstring Lake. From there, it flows until it reaches the town of Deer River, Minnesota, where it joins the Mississippi River.
What Does the Name "Deer River" Mean?
The name "Deer River" is an English translation. It comes from the original name given by the Ojibwe people, who are a Native American group. Their language had a name for this river that meant "Deer River." This shows how important deer were to the area and the people living there long ago.
Why are Rivers Important?
Rivers like the Deer River are super important for many reasons:
- Water Supply: They provide fresh water for plants, animals, and sometimes even people.
- Habitats: Rivers are home to many different kinds of fish, insects, and other wildlife.
- Transportation: Historically, rivers were like natural highways, helping people travel and move goods.
- Ecosystems: They connect different parts of the land, helping nutrients and life spread.
The Deer River, as a tributary of the Mississippi, plays a small but important role in the larger river system. It helps carry water and nutrients into one of the longest rivers in North America.
