Hickory Creek (Illinois River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hickory Creek |
|
|---|---|
 Location in Arkansas
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | Arkansas |
| County | Washington |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Washington County 36°1′1″N 94°12′45″W / 36.01694°N 94.21250°W |
| River mouth | Washington County 1,138 ft (347 m) 35°58′5″N 94°15′3″W / 35.96806°N 94.25083°W |
Hickory Creek is a small waterway located in Washington County, Arkansas. It is a tributary of the Illinois River. This means it is a smaller stream that flows into the larger Illinois River.
Contents
About Hickory Creek
Hickory Creek plays an important role in the local environment. It helps to carry water from the land into the larger river system. This creek is part of the natural landscape of Arkansas.
Where is Hickory Creek Located?
Hickory Creek is found in the northwestern part of Arkansas. Specifically, it flows through Washington County. This county is known for its beautiful natural areas.
The creek starts in Washington County. It then flows until it joins the Illinois River. The Illinois River eventually flows into other larger rivers. This makes Hickory Creek a small but important part of a much bigger water network.
What is a Tributary?
A tributary is a stream or river that flows into a larger stream or river. Think of it like a branch joining a main tree trunk. Hickory Creek is a branch that adds its water to the Illinois River.
Tributaries are very important for several reasons:
- They collect water from a wide area.
- They help to keep the main river full.
- They create different habitats for plants and animals.
Why are Creeks Important?
Even small creeks like Hickory Creek are vital for nature. They provide homes for many types of wildlife. Fish, insects, and other small creatures live in and around the water.
Creeks also help to keep the environment healthy. They filter water as it moves through the land. This helps to clean the water before it reaches larger rivers. They are a key part of the natural water cycle.
