Downs Brook facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Downs Brook |
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|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| State | New York |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Delaware County, New York |
| River mouth | East Branch Delaware River Downsville, New York, Delaware County, New York, United States 42°04′33″N 74°59′31″W / 42.07583°N 74.99194°W |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 26.8 sq mi (69 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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Downs Brook is a small but important river located in Delaware County, New York. It's like a natural pathway for water, flowing through the beautiful landscapes of the region. This brook eventually joins a bigger river, the East Branch Delaware River, near the town of Downsville, New York.
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What is Downs Brook?
Downs Brook is a type of small river, often called a 'brook' because of its size. It starts in Delaware County, New York, and winds its way through the land. Its journey ends when it flows into the East Branch Delaware River. This happens close to the town of Downsville, New York.
The water from Downs Brook eventually becomes part of the much larger Delaware River system. This system provides drinking water to millions of people. It also supports many different kinds of plants and animals.
Where Does Downs Brook Flow?
The brook begins its journey in the hills of Delaware County, New York. It then travels a short distance before meeting the East Branch Delaware River. This meeting point is near the community of Downsville.
The area that drains into Downs Brook is called its "basin" or "watershed." For Downs Brook, this area covers about 26.8 square miles (69.4 square kilometers). This means all the rain and snow that falls in this area will eventually flow into the brook.
Tributaries of Downs Brook
A tributary is a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one. Downs Brook has a few tributaries that add water to its flow. These smaller streams help to collect water from different parts of the watershed.
Two of the known tributaries that join Downs Brook are Doe Brook and Wilson Hollow Brook. These smaller brooks contribute to the overall health and water volume of Downs Brook. They are important parts of the local water network.
Why Are Small Rivers Important?
Even small rivers like Downs Brook play a huge role in nature. They help to carry water from land to larger rivers and eventually to the ocean. This process is part of the Earth's natural water cycle.
Small rivers also create homes for many plants and animals. Fish, insects, and birds often rely on these waterways for food and shelter. They are vital for the local ecosystem and biodiversity.
They also help keep the environment healthy by filtering water naturally. This means they can remove some pollutants as water flows through them. Protecting small rivers helps protect our planet's water resources.
