Hay Creek (Mississippi River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hay Creek |
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Hay Creek and nearby Spring Creek
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 Mouth of Hay Creek
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| Country | United States |
| State | Minnesota |
| County | Goodhue |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 44°24′36″N 92°41′37″W / 44.4099661°N 92.6935281°W |
| River mouth | Red Wing, Minnesota 44°34′25″N 92°33′13″W / 44.5735787°N 92.5535244°W |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Upper Mississippi River |
Hay Creek is a small stream in southeastern Minnesota. It's known for its trout fish. The stream starts west of a town called Goodhue. It then flows into the mighty Mississippi River near Red Wing. Hay Creek is about 25 miles (40 km) long. Its name comes from the hay fields that used to grow along its sides.
A long time ago, a railroad track followed Hay Creek. This track carried clay from Goodhue to factories in Red Wing. These factories used the creek's water to make pottery. The railroad was removed in 1937, but you can still see old bridge parts (trestle pilings) today.
Creek Habitat and Fish
Hay Creek used to be home to many fish, including Brook trout. But over time, farming practices in the 1700s and 1800s caused the fish numbers to drop. This meant fewer fish lived in the creek.
Restoring Hay Creek
In the mid-1970s, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) started working to make Hay Creek healthy again. Their goal was to bring back the fish and improve the stream's environment. By 1976, more than half of Hay Creek was officially named a "trout stream" by Minnesota. This means it's a special place for trout fishing.
Fishing in Hay Creek
Many people like to fish in Hay Creek. It's easy to get to because it's close to big cities like Minneapolis–St. Paul. This means a lot of anglers visit the creek. Groups like Minnesota Trout Unlimited are also helping to restore Hay Creek. They work to make sure the stream stays a great place for fish and fishing.
