Forest River (North Dakota) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Forest River |
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|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Confluence of the North Branch and Middle Branch of Forest River, Walsh County near Fordville, North Dakota 1,101 ft (336 m) 48°12′45″N 97°48′31″W / 48.2125°N 97.8086111°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with the Red River, Walsh County 774 ft (236 m) 48°21′29″N 97°08′45″W / 48.3580556°N 97.1458333°W |
| Length | 81 mi (130 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Forest River → Red River → Lake Winnipeg → Nelson River → Hudson Bay → Atlantic Ocean |
| GNIS ID | 1029003 |
The Forest River is a river in eastern North Dakota, United States. It is about 81 mi (130 km) long. This river is a branch, or tributary, of the Red River of the North. It flows through Walsh County and is an important part of the local environment.
Contents
What is the Forest River?
The Forest River is a natural waterway. It helps carry water across the land. It starts in Walsh County, North Dakota. From there, it flows towards the southeast and then east.
Where Does it Start and End?
The Forest River begins where two smaller streams meet. These are the North Branch and Middle Branch of the Forest River. This meeting point is in Walsh County, near a town called Fordville.
The river then travels quite a distance. It eventually joins a much larger river. This larger river is the Red River of the North. The Forest River meets the Red River about 40 miles (64 km) north of Grand Forks.
Journey Through North Dakota
As the Forest River flows, it passes by several towns. These include Fordville and Minto. The river's path helps shape the land around it. It also provides water for plants and animals.
The water from the Forest River eventually travels a very long way. After joining the Red River, it flows north into Lake Winnipeg in Canada. From there, it goes into the Nelson River. The Nelson River then carries the water all the way to Hudson Bay. Finally, the water reaches the Atlantic Ocean.
Why are Rivers Important?
Rivers like the Forest River are super important! They provide fresh water for people, animals, and plants. Many towns and cities are built near rivers. This is because rivers offer a way to travel and transport goods.
Rivers also create special habitats for wildlife. Fish, birds, and many other creatures depend on rivers. They use the water for drinking, finding food, and building homes. Rivers also help shape the landscape. They can create valleys and fertile plains over many years.
Fun Facts About Rivers
- Rivers are always flowing downhill. They move from higher ground to lower ground.
- The place where a river starts is called its source.
- The place where a river ends, usually by joining another river or a lake, is called its mouth.
- The land area that collects water for a river is called its watershed or drainage basin.
- Rivers can be very different sizes. Some are tiny streams, while others are huge, powerful waterways.
