Ellerbe Creek facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ellerbe Creek |
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A wooden bridge over a tributary on the western part of the Ellerbe Creek Trail
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 Location of Ellerbe Creek mouth
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| Other name(s) | Tributary to Neuse River |
| Country | United States |
| State | North Carolina |
| County | Durham |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | divide between Ellerbe Creek and Eno River Durham, North Carolina 460 ft (140 m) 36°01′32″N 078°58′25″W / 36.02556°N 78.97361°W |
| River mouth | Neuse River (Falls Lake) Durham, North Carolina 252 ft (77 m) 36°04′15″N 078°47′06″W / 36.07083°N 78.78500°W |
| Length | 13.04 mi (20.99 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | east |
| River system | Neuse River |
| Basin size | 66.96 square miles (173.4 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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Ellerbe Creek is a small river, also called a tributary, that flows into the Neuse River in North Carolina, USA. It is an important part of the Neuse River system. This creek travels for over 13 miles (about 21 kilometers) through the northern part of Durham.
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What is Ellerbe Creek?
Ellerbe Creek is a natural waterway. It starts near Orange County, North Carolina. The water for the creek comes from an area called a watershed. This watershed begins close to Interstate 85, near the WDNC radio tower and Bennett Place. The creek then flows eastward.
Where Does Ellerbe Creek Flow?
As Ellerbe Creek winds its way, it passes through many well-known and historic spots in Durham. It flows near Ninth Street and goes right through Downtown Durham. You can even find it flowing under the Durham Athletic Park. The creek also passes by The North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics and the Museum of Life and Science. It continues past the old Durham Landfill and Duke University East Campus. Other areas it touches include Trinity Park, Walltown, and Northgate Mall. Near its end, it crosses Fishdam Road. Finally, Ellerbe Creek flows into Falls Lake, which is part of the Neuse River. This happens about a mile south of the Eno River.
Why is Ellerbe Creek Important?
Ellerbe Creek is a vital part of the local environment. It helps move water through the landscape. The creek is also home to various plants and animals. It connects many different parts of the community.
Efforts to Clean Up the Creek
For a while, Ellerbe Creek was known as the most polluted creek in The Triangle region of North Carolina. This meant it had a lot of unwanted substances in its water. However, people are working hard to make it cleaner. In 2010, a special plan was created to improve the creek's watershed. This plan helps guide efforts to reduce pollution. Many groups and people are now working together to protect and restore Ellerbe Creek. Their goal is to make the creek healthy for everyone.
What's in a Name?
The name "Ellerbe" has an interesting history. Some people believe the name comes from a Native American language. This would mean it was named by the first people who lived in the area. Others think the creek was named after an early settler. His name was John Ellerby. Both ideas are possible, and the true origin is still a bit of a mystery!
