Fox Creek (Bryant Creek tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fox Creek |
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Fox Creek looking south from county road bridge at Champion, Missouri
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| Country | United States |
| State | Missouri |
| Region | Douglas County and Wright County |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 1,400 ft (430 m) 37°05′24″N 92°23′58″W / 37.09000°N 92.39944°W |
| River mouth | 722 ft (220 m) 36°49′34″N 92°23′13″W / 36.82611°N 92.38694°W |
Fox Creek is a lovely stream that flows through the southern part of Missouri, in a beautiful area called the Ozarks. It starts in Wright County and winds its way south through Douglas County. This creek is an important part of the local environment. It eventually joins a larger stream called Bryant Creek.
Contents
Where Fox Creek Begins and Ends
Fox Creek starts its journey in the southern part of Wright County. The exact spot where it begins is about three-quarters of a mile east of Missouri Route C. This area is just southeast of a town called Norwood. At its source, the creek is about 1,400 feet above sea level.
The creek then flows south, twisting and turning along its path. It passes by several small towns and communities. These include Denlow, which is near Missouri Route 76. It also flows east of Champion. Further along, it goes just west of Gentryville, which is on Missouri Route 14. Finally, it passes Bertha.
Fox Creek finishes its journey when it flows into Bryant Creek. This meeting point is just south of Bertha. The elevation where the two creeks join is about 722 feet above sea level.
The Ozarks: Home to Fox Creek
Fox Creek is located in a special region known as the Ozarks. The Ozarks is a highland area that covers parts of Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. It is famous for its beautiful hills, forests, and many clear streams and rivers.
Unique Features of the Ozarks
The Ozarks has some unique features that make it special.
- Karst Topography: This means the land is made of soluble rock like limestone. Over time, water dissolves the rock, creating caves, sinkholes, and springs. Many creeks, like Fox Creek, are fed by these natural springs.
- Clear Water: Because of the limestone, the water in Ozarks streams is often very clear. This makes it a great place for many types of fish and other aquatic life.
- Forests: The Ozarks are covered in dense forests, mostly oak and hickory trees. These forests help keep the water clean by preventing soil erosion.
Importance of Creeks Like Fox Creek
Small streams like Fox Creek are very important for the environment. They play a big role in the local ecosystem.
Supporting Wildlife
Creeks provide a home for many different animals.
- Fish: Various fish species live in the cool, clear waters.
- Insects: Many types of insects, like dragonflies and caddisflies, spend part of their lives in the water. These insects are food for fish and birds.
- Amphibians and Reptiles: Frogs, salamanders, and turtles can often be found near the creek banks.
- Mammals: Animals like raccoons and deer visit the creek to drink water. Birds also use the creek for water and to find food.
Water Quality and Flow
Creeks help keep the larger rivers healthy. They carry water from smaller areas into bigger streams. The plants along the creek banks help filter the water, keeping it clean. They also help control the flow of water, especially after heavy rains. This helps prevent floods in some areas.
