Flatrock Creek (Auglaize River tributary) facts for kids

Flatrock Creek is a cool waterway, about 57 miles (or 92 kilometers) long. It's a smaller stream that flows into the Auglaize River. You can find Flatrock Creek in both northeastern Indiana and northwestern Ohio in the United States. This creek helps drain water from farms and rural areas, and all that water eventually makes its way to Lake Erie.

Flatrock Creek

Flatrock Creek is an important part of the local environment. It helps carry water across the land. This water then joins bigger rivers and eventually reaches one of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie. The creek supports the natural areas it flows through.

Where Does Flatrock Creek Start?

Flatrock Creek begins in a special place called "headwater streams." Think of these as the very first, small trickles of water that come together to form the creek. These headwater streams are found right on the border between Adams County, Indiana and Van Wert County, Ohio. This is about 8 miles (or 13 kilometers) northeast of a town called Decatur, Indiana.

Journey of the Creek

Once it starts, Flatrock Creek begins its journey. It flows from Ohio into the eastern part of Allen County, Indiana. Then, near a town called Monroeville, Indiana, the creek changes direction. It turns and flows northeast.

The creek then crosses back into Paulding County, Ohio. Along its way, it passes by the towns of Payne and Paulding. Finally, Flatrock Creek joins the Auglaize River. This meeting point is about 10 miles (or 16 kilometers) southwest of Defiance. You can find this spot at coordinates 41.1761604, -84.4407815.

What is a Watershed?

Flatrock Creek is part of something called a "watershed." A watershed is like a big bowl or a drainage basin. All the rain and snow that falls within this area eventually flows into the same river, lake, or ocean. Flatrock Creek is part of the larger watershed that drains into Lake Erie. This means all the water from the land around the creek eventually ends up in Lake Erie.

Wildlife and Nature

Rivers and creeks like Flatrock Creek are home to many different plants and animals. Fish, insects, and birds often live near the water. The creek provides a habitat for these creatures. It also helps keep the land healthy by carrying water and nutrients. Protecting creeks helps protect all the wildlife that depends on them.