Gore Creek (Colorado) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gore Creek |
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Gore Creek in June, 2014
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| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 39°36′29″N 106°11′43″W / 39.60806°N 106.19528°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with Eagle 7,713 ft (2,351 m) 39°36′32″N 106°26′57″W / 39.60889°N 106.44917°W |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Eagle—Colorado |
Gore Creek is a beautiful stream located in central Colorado, United States. It's about 18.5 miles (30 km) long. This creek flows through Eagle County and is a smaller stream that feeds into a larger one called the Eagle River.
Gore Creek gets its water from the Rocky Mountains. It starts high up in the Gore Range, near the border of Eagle and Summit County. This area is part of the White River National Forest.
Where Does Gore Creek Flow?
The creek begins about 4 miles (6.4 km) north of Vail Pass. It then flows west through a narrow valley. Along its journey, another stream called Black Gore Creek joins it from the south.
As Gore Creek continues, it runs next to U.S. Highway 6 and Interstate 70. These roads were built many years ago. The creek flows right through the town of Vail. Finally, it meets the Eagle River about 3 miles (4.8 km) west of Vail.
Why is Gore Creek Important?
Gore Creek is a special place for many reasons. It's known for its "Gold Medal Brown Trout fishery." This means it's a great spot for fishing, especially for brown trout!
However, the health of the creek has become a concern. Scientists noticed that there weren't enough aquatic macroinvertebrates living in the water. These are tiny insects and creatures that live in the water. They are a very important food source for fish like trout.
Because of these low numbers, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment added Gore Creek to a list of "impaired waterways" in 2011. This means the creek wasn't as healthy as it should be.
Helping Gore Creek Stay Healthy
When the creek was listed as impaired, communities along Gore Creek became worried. Many groups decided to work together to help restore the creek's health. These groups include the Eagle River Watershed Council, Eagle River Water and Sanitation District, and the Town of Vail.
They are asking everyone to help keep the creek clean. Here are some ways people can help:
- Do not pour pollution down storm drains. These drains often lead directly to the creek.
- Replace lawns and paved areas with native plants. These plants help soak up rainwater and filter out pollutants.
- Follow instructions when using fertilizers or pesticides. It's best to avoid using them on windy days or when rain is expected. This stops chemicals from washing into the creek.
By working together, these efforts can prevent harmful pollution from entering Gore Creek. This will help the important aquatic insects grow back, which is vital for the trout and other wildlife that depend on them.
