Herkimer Creek facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Herkimer Creek |
|
|---|---|
 
Location of the mouth of Herkimer Creek
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | New York |
| Region | Central New York |
| County | Otsego |
| Towns | Exeter, Richfield |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | West-southwest of Richfield 1,745 ft (532 m) 42°51′07″N 75°05′03″W / 42.8519444°N 75.0841667°W |
| River mouth | Canadarago Lake Northeast of Schuyler Lake 1,270 ft (390 m) 42°47′31″N 75°01′00″W / 42.79194°N 75.01667°W |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 12.1 sq mi (31 km2) |
| Tributaries |
|
Herkimer Creek is a small river or creek located in Otsego County, New York. It starts its journey in the western part of the county, near the hamlet of Richfield. From there, it flows mostly towards the southeast. Herkimer Creek eventually empties into Canadarago Lake, which is a beautiful lake northeast of the hamlet of Schuyler Lake.
Contents
Where Does Herkimer Creek Begin?
Herkimer Creek begins its flow west-southwest of the small community known as Richfield. This starting point is also northwest of another hamlet called Dogtown. The creek starts at an elevation of about 1,745 feet (532 meters) above sea level.
The Journey of Herkimer Creek
As Herkimer Creek flows, it travels through parts of Otsego County. It passes through or near the towns of Exeter and Richfield. The creek's path is mainly southeast, winding its way through the landscape.
Meeting Canadarago Lake
The journey of Herkimer Creek ends when it flows into Canadarago Lake. This lake is a significant body of water in the region. The mouth of the creek, where it joins the lake, is located northeast of Schuyler Lake. At this point, the creek is about 1,270 feet (387 meters) above sea level.
Why Are Creeks Important?
Creeks like Herkimer Creek play a very important role in nature. They are like small highways for water, carrying it from higher ground to larger rivers or lakes.
- Water Supply: Creeks help provide water for plants and animals.
- Habitats: Many different kinds of fish, insects, and other wildlife live in and around creeks.
- Ecosystems: They are a key part of the local environment, connecting different areas.
- Recreation: Sometimes, creeks are used for fun activities like fishing or kayaking.
Herkimer Creek's Water Basin
The area of land that drains water into Herkimer Creek is called its basin. For Herkimer Creek, this basin covers about 12.1 square miles (31.3 square kilometers). This means all the rain and snow that falls in this area eventually flows into the creek.
Tributaries of Herkimer Creek
A tributary is a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one. Herkimer Creek has at least one known tributary on its right side called Sutherland Creek. This means Sutherland Creek adds its water to Herkimer Creek's flow.
