Fish Creek (Douglas Island, Juneau, Alaska) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fish Creek |
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Grizzly bear at Fish Creek in Hyder, Alaska.
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| Country | United States |
| State | Alaska |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Cropley Lake, Douglas Island |
| River mouth | Fritz Cove, Stephens Passage 26 ft (7.9 m) |
Fish Creek is a small river located on Douglas Island in Juneau, Alaska, United States. It begins at Cropley Lake and flows into Fritz Cove, which is part of Stephens Passage. The river is about 7 miles (11 km) northwest of the main city of Juneau.
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A River with History
Fish Creek has been important to the local area for a long time. It played a role in the history of gold mining in Alaska.
Gold Mining and Water
As early as 1885, the famous Treadwell gold mine used water from Fish Creek. Gold mines need a lot of water for their operations.
To get enough water, the Treadwell Ditch was built in 1889. This ditch was like a long channel that carried water. It brought water sixteen miles (about 26 kilometers) from Fish Creek all the way to the mines.
The Fish Creek Settlement
The name "Fish Creek" also refers to a small historical community. This settlement was located right where the river meets the sea.
People started claiming land there in 1880. Later, in 1936, a school was built in the settlement. This shows that families lived and grew in the area around Fish Creek.
Wildlife Near the River
Fish Creek is also home to interesting wildlife.
American Dippers
In May 2010, American dipper birds were seen nesting near the river. American dippers are unique birds that can walk underwater! They dive into streams to find insects and small fish to eat. Finding them nesting shows that Fish Creek is a healthy place for these birds to live.
