Hungry River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hungry River |
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 Location of Green River mouth
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| Other name(s) | Tributary to Green River |
| Country | United States |
| State | North Carolina |
| County | Henderson |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | divide between Hungry River and Broad River Ottanola Gap 2,940 ft (900 m) 35°23′28″N 082°15′54″W / 35.39111°N 82.26500°W |
| River mouth | Green River about 2 miles southeast of Upland, North Carolina 1,560 ft (480 m) 35°16′59″N 082°21′30″W / 35.28306°N 82.35833°W |
| Length | 12.2 mi (19.6 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | southwest |
| River system | Broad River |
| Basin size | 21.4 square miles (55 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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The Hungry River is a cool waterway found in the western part of North Carolina, United States. It starts its journey in the eastern area of Henderson County. From there, it flows towards the southwest, staying entirely within Henderson County. Eventually, it joins another important river called the Green River.
Contents
The River's Journey
The Hungry River begins high up at a place called Ottanola Gap. This spot is about 2,940 feet (896 meters) above sea level. It's like the river is born from the land, ready to flow downhill.
Where it Flows
As the Hungry River travels, it moves southwest. It covers a distance of about 12.2 miles (19.6 kilometers). Along its way, it collects water from a basin area of about 21.4 square miles (55.4 square kilometers). This means it drains water from a pretty large piece of land.
Joining the Green River
The Hungry River's journey ends when it flows into the Green River. This meeting point is about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) southeast of a town called Upland, North Carolina. At this spot, the river is about 1,560 feet (475 meters) above sea level.
Helper Streams
The Hungry River gets help from smaller streams that flow into it. These smaller streams are called tributaries. On its right side, it's joined by the Little Hungry River and Tumblebug Creek. There are also other unnamed streams that add water to the Hungry River.
History of Power from the River
For many years, people have used the power of the Hungry River. This power helped to create electricity for the area.
Early Hydroelectric Plants
Back in 1904, the very first hydroelectric plant in Henderson County was built on the Hungry River. A hydroelectric plant uses the force of moving water to make electricity. Then, in 1913, another dam was built about half a mile downstream from the first one. This second dam also helped to make electricity.
What's Happening Now
Both of these old dams are still standing today. However, they are not working anymore. This means they can't make electricity like they used to. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is now in charge of these dams. They have plans to remove them. Removing the dams can help the river flow more naturally and be better for fish and other wildlife.
