Fraser River facts for kids
The Fraser River is a very important and long river in western Canada. It starts high up in the Rocky Mountains and flows all the way to the Pacific Ocean. This amazing journey takes it through much of British Columbia. It's the longest river in British Columbia, stretching almost 1,400 kilometers (about 870 miles)! It's also the tenth longest river in all of Canada.
Contents
Where Does the Fraser River Go?
The Fraser River begins in the Fraser Pass in the Rocky Mountains. This is in the southeastern part of British Columbia. From there, it flows north for a while. Then, it makes a big turn near a town called Prince George. After this turn, it flows south through a deep valley. This valley is known as the Fraser Canyon. Finally, the river turns west near the city of Hope. It then flows into the Strait of Georgia at Vancouver. The Strait of Georgia is part of the Pacific Ocean.
The River's Long Journey
The Fraser River travels through many different landscapes. It passes through mountains, forests, and farmlands. Along its way, many smaller rivers and streams join it. These are called tributaries. The area that collects water for the river is called its drainage basin. The Fraser River's drainage basin covers about one-quarter of British Columbia.
Why is the Fraser River Important?
The Fraser River is very important for many reasons. It provides water for cities and farms. It's also a major travel route for boats. For thousands of years, Indigenous peoples have lived along the river. They have used it for food, travel, and trade.
Home for Wildlife
The Fraser River is famous for its huge runs of salmon. Millions of salmon return to the river each year to lay their eggs. These salmon are a vital food source for many animals. Bears, eagles, and other wildlife depend on them. The river also supports many other types of fish and birds. Its estuary, where the river meets the ocean, is a very important place for migrating birds.
History and Trade
The river played a big role in the history of British Columbia. It was a key route during the Fraser Canyon Gold Rush in the 1850s. Many people traveled up the river hoping to find gold. Today, the river is still used for transporting goods. It also supports fishing and tourism.
Floods on the Fraser River
Like many large rivers, the Fraser River can sometimes flood. This usually happens in late spring or early summer. It's caused by snow melting quickly in the mountains. Large floods have happened many times in the past. For example, there was a big flood in 1894 and another in 1948. These floods can cause a lot of damage to towns and farms along the river. People have built dikes and other structures to try and control the floods.
Images for kids
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Fraser River drainage basin
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The Descent of the Fraser River, 1808, by C.W. Jefferys
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Fraser River in Lillooet
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Source of Fraser River at Fraser Pass
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The Chilliwack flood of 1894
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Fraser River in the Glen Fraser area, about 25 kilometres (16 mi) upstream of Lillooet
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An east-facing aerial view of Ladner beyond Barber Island, Duck Island, Gunn Island and Port Guichon in the Fraser River Estuary
See also
In Spanish: Río Fraser para niños
