Juanita Creek facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Juanita Creek |
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Location of the mouth of Juanita Creek in Washington
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| Country | United States |
| State | Washington |
| Region | King County |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 47°44′03″N 122°10′44″W / 47.73417°N 122.17889°W |
| River mouth | Lake Washington 16 ft (4.9 m) 47°42′14″N 122°13′05″W / 47.70389°N 122.21806°W |
| Length | 5 mi (8.0 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 6.6 sq mi (17 km2) |
Juanita Creek is a small waterway, also known as a creek, located in King County, Washington. It flows right through the city of Kirkland. This creek travels for about 5 miles (8 kilometers) before it reaches Lake Washington. It empties into Juanita Bay, which is part of the lake, near Juanita Beach Park.
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About Juanita Creek
Juanita Creek is an important natural feature in the Kirkland area. It helps carry water from higher ground down to Lake Washington. Creeks like Juanita Creek are vital for the local environment. They provide homes for many plants and animals.
Where Does It Start and End?
The creek begins in the northern part of King County. It flows generally southwest. Its journey ends when it flows into Juanita Bay. This bay is a beautiful part of Lake Washington. The mouth of the creek is only about 16 feet (5 meters) above sea level.
How Long Is It?
Juanita Creek is about 5 miles (8 kilometers) long. This might not seem very long compared to big rivers. However, it plays a big role in its local area. It connects different parts of the landscape.
How Much Water Flows?
The amount of water in Juanita Creek can change a lot. It depends on the weather. During dry times, it might have only a small amount of water. After heavy rains, it can flow much faster and carry more water. On average, it carries about 11.1 cubic feet per second (0.31 cubic meters per second).
The Creek's Environment
Juanita Creek and its surrounding area are home to various types of wildlife. The water and the land next to the creek create a habitat. This habitat supports different species of plants and animals.
Plants Along the Creek
Many types of plants grow along the banks of Juanita Creek. These plants help keep the soil from washing away. They also provide shade and shelter for animals. You might see native trees, shrubs, and smaller plants.
Animals in and Around the Creek
Creeks like Juanita Creek are important for fish. They can be a place for fish to lay their eggs. Other animals also rely on the creek for water and food. You might spot birds, small mammals, and insects near the water.
Juanita Beach Park
Juanita Beach Park is a popular spot where the creek meets Lake Washington. This park offers a chance for people to enjoy nature. It's a great place to see where the creek's journey ends. The park has beaches, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It's a fun place for families and friends to visit.
Protecting the Creek
It's important to keep Juanita Creek clean and healthy. Pollution can harm the plants and animals that live there. Local groups and the city work to protect the creek. They try to make sure the water stays clean. This helps keep the environment safe for everyone.
Why is it Important to Protect Creeks?
Creeks are like natural highways for water. They carry water from land to larger bodies of water. They also help filter out pollutants. Protecting creeks means protecting our water sources. It also helps keep our local ecosystems healthy.
See also
In Spanish: Juanita Creek para niños
