East Branch South Branch Kishwaukee River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids East Branch South Branch Kishwaukee River |
|
|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Plato Township, Kane County, Illinois 978 ft (298 m) 41°59′38″N 88°27′48″W / 41.9938889°N 88.4633333°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with the South Branch Kishwaukee northwest of Sycamore, Illinois 820 ft (250 m) 42°00′38″N 88°43′25″W / 42.0105556°N 88.7236111°W |
| Length | 24 mi (39 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | East Branch South Branch Kishwaukee River → South Branch Kishwaukee → Kishwaukee → Rock → Mississippi → Gulf of Mexico |
| GNIS ID | 421769 |
The East Branch South Branch Kishwaukee River is a fascinating waterway located in northern Illinois. It's a smaller stream that flows into a larger river system. This river is about 24 miles (38 kilometers) long. It plays an important role in the natural world around it. It helps carry water across the land.
Contents
The Journey of the East Branch Kishwaukee River
Every river has a special journey, and the East Branch South Branch Kishwaukee River is no different! It starts as a small stream and grows as it travels. This river is like a natural pathway for water. It connects different parts of the landscape.
Where Does This River Start?
The East Branch South Branch Kishwaukee River begins its journey in a place called Plato Township, Kane County, Illinois. This is its "source," or where it first appears. Imagine a tiny trickle of water that slowly gets bigger. At its start, the river is about 978 feet (298 meters) above sea level. This high starting point helps the water flow downhill.
Where Does This River Go?
As the river flows, it travels through different areas. It eventually meets up with another river. This meeting point is called a "confluence." The East Branch South Branch Kishwaukee River joins the South Branch Kishwaukee River. This happens northwest of a town called Sycamore, Illinois. At this point, the river is about 820 feet (250 meters) above sea level. It has flowed downhill quite a bit!
Its Path to the Ocean
The water from the East Branch South Branch Kishwaukee River doesn't stop there. It continues its long journey.
- First, it flows into the South Branch Kishwaukee River.
- Then, the South Branch Kishwaukee River joins the main Kishwaukee River.
- The Kishwaukee River then flows into the Rock River.
- The Rock River eventually empties into the mighty Mississippi River.
- Finally, the Mississippi River carries all that water all the way to the Gulf of Mexico.
So, a drop of water from this small river in Illinois can travel thousands of miles to the ocean!
Why Rivers Are Important
Rivers like the East Branch South Branch Kishwaukee River are super important for many reasons. They are not just paths for water. They are living ecosystems.
Home for Wildlife
Rivers provide a home for many different plants and animals. Fish, insects, and birds all depend on rivers. The water helps plants grow along the banks. These plants offer food and shelter for animals. It's like a natural neighborhood for wildlife.
Natural Waterways
Rivers also help shape the land. Over many years, they can carve out valleys and canyons. They move soil and rocks, changing the landscape. They are natural waterways that have been important for people for thousands of years. Early towns often grew up near rivers.
Water for People
People also rely on rivers for many things. Rivers can provide water for drinking and farming. They can also be used for fun activities like fishing or kayaking. Taking care of our rivers is very important. This ensures they stay healthy for everyone.
