Harvey Creek (New York) facts for kids

Harvey Creek is a small stream located in New York, United States. It flows into the larger Black River near a place called Bushes Landing, New York. Creeks like Harvey Creek are important parts of our natural world, even if they are not as big as major rivers. They help carry water across the land and provide homes for many plants and animals.

Harvey Creek: A Small Stream's Journey

Harvey Creek is a good example of a typical North American creek. It starts from higher ground and flows downhill, joining other small streams before reaching the Black River. This river then eventually flows into Lake Ontario, which is one of the Great Lakes. So, the water from Harvey Creek travels a long way!

What is a Creek?

A creek is a small natural stream of water. It is usually smaller than a river but larger than a brook. Creeks often have a gentle flow, but they can become faster and wider after heavy rain or when snow melts. They are fed by different sources like rainfall, melting snow, and groundwater that seeps up from underground.

Where Does the Water Flow?

The water in Harvey Creek comes from its watershed or drainage basin. This is the area of land where all the rain and melted snow drain into the creek. For Harvey Creek, this area is about 2.93 square miles (7.59 square kilometers). The creek's journey ends when it reaches the Black River, which is its "mouth." At this point, the creek is about 730 feet (223 meters) above sea level.

Plants and Animals of the Creek

Creeks like Harvey Creek are bustling with life. They provide a unique habitat for many different kinds of plants and animals. The water, the banks, and the surrounding land all support a rich variety of living things.

Tiny Creatures in the Water

Inside the creek, you might find small fish, insects, and other creatures. For example, mayfly nymphs, caddisfly larvae, and stonefly nymphs often live under rocks in the water. These tiny creatures are an important food source for bigger animals. You might also spot small fish like minnows or dace swimming in the clearer parts of the creek.

Life on the Banks

The areas along the creek banks are also full of life. Trees like willows and alders often grow there, helping to keep the soil from washing away. Their roots also provide shelter for animals. You might see frogs, salamanders, or even snakes near the water's edge. Birds often visit creeks to drink water or hunt for insects. Sometimes, larger animals like deer or raccoons come to the creek for water too.

Why Creeks Matter

Creeks are very important for the environment. They help to:

• Provide Water: They supply fresh water for plants and animals.
• Connect Ecosystems: They link different natural areas, allowing animals to move between them.
• Filter Water: The plants along the banks help to filter out pollutants before the water reaches larger rivers.
• Prevent Flooding: They help to carry away excess water after heavy rains, reducing the risk of flooding in some areas.

Exploring and Protecting Creeks

Exploring a creek like Harvey Creek can be a fun and educational adventure. You can learn about different plants, spot various animals, and understand how water moves through the landscape. When you visit a creek, it's important to be respectful of nature. Always remember to:

• Leave no trash behind.
• Avoid disturbing the plants and animals.
• Stay on marked paths if they exist.

By understanding and protecting small streams like Harvey Creek, we help keep our larger rivers and lakes healthy for everyone.