Frenchman Creek (Republican River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Frenchman Creek |
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Champion Mill on Frenchman Creek
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| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 40°35′15″N 102°18′57″W / 40.58750°N 102.31583°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with Republican 2,562 ft (781 m) 40°13′29″N 100°49′36″W / 40.22472°N 100.82667°W |
| Length | 166 mi (267 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Republican—Kansas— Missouri—Mississippi |
Frenchman Creek is a cool waterway that gets its water from natural springs. It starts in Phillips County, Colorado, and flows through Chase and Hayes counties in Nebraska. This creek finally joins the Republican River in Hitchcock County, Nebraska. The entire creek stretches for about 166 mi (267 km).
Contents
History of Frenchman Creek
People have used Frenchman Creek for a long time. They built different kinds of mills and systems to bring water to farms. These structures helped communities grow and use the creek's power.
Early Mills and Their Uses
One of the first important buildings was a large roller mill. It was built in 1887 in Wauneta by Blair and Polly. This mill could process 100 barrels of grain each day.
Another famous mill is the Champion Mill. Thomas Scott built it in 1888 in the community of Champion. This mill worked for many years, from 1888 to 1968. It ground flour and animal feed for people in the area.
The Champion Mill was the very last water-powered mill still working in Nebraska. In 1969, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission bought it. Today, it is a state historical park, helping us remember the past.
Enders Reservoir and Its Importance
Frenchman Creek also flows into Enders Reservoir. This large reservoir is near the village of Enders, Nebraska. Enders Dam was built between 1947 and 1951. It was part of a big plan by the Bureau of Reclamation to manage water in the Missouri River area.
Water stored in Enders Reservoir is used to water farms in the Frenchman-Cambridge Irrigation district. This helps crops grow, even when there isn't much rain.
Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area is also a popular spot for outdoor fun. Many people visit to go fishing, hunting, and enjoy other activities in nature.
Changes in Water Flow
Over the years, the amount of water flowing in Frenchman Creek has gone down. This includes the water released from Enders Reservoir. Scientists believe the main reason is that the water underground has dropped. This is because people use a lot of groundwater for irrigation on farms.
When the underground water levels drop, the natural springs that feed the creek don't flow as strongly. To keep the reservoir good for recreation and wildlife, water releases for farming were stopped after 2002. This helps make sure there's enough water for fish and other animals.
