Kings Creek (Mississippi River Ontario) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kings Creek |
|
|---|---|
| Country | Canada |
| State | Ontario |
| County | Lanark |
| Municipality | Scotch Corners |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 140 m (460 ft) 45°04′13″N 76°11′40″W / 45.07028°N 76.19444°W |
| River mouth | Mississippi Lake 134 m (440 ft) 45°05′14″N 76°10′53″W / 45.08722°N 76.18139°W |
| Length | 2.56 km (1.59 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Mississippi River (Ontario) system |
Kings Creek is a small creek located in eastern Ontario, Canada. It is like a small river that flows into a larger water system. Kings Creek is a "left tributary" of the Mississippi River (Ontario), which means it joins the Mississippi River system from the left side as you look downstream. This creek flows directly into Mississippi Lake.
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What is Kings Creek?
Kings Creek is a natural waterway, smaller than a river but larger than a ditch. It plays an important role in the local environment. This creek is about 2.56 km (1.59 mi) long. That's roughly the distance of 25 football fields!
Where is Kings Creek Located?
Kings Creek can be found in Lanark County, within the province of Ontario, Canada. It starts in an area called Scotch Corners. The creek begins at an elevation of about 140 m (460 ft) above sea level.
The Source of Kings Creek
The very beginning of Kings Creek is its "source." This is where the water first gathers to form the creek. From its source, the water flows downhill, following the land's slope.
Where Kings Creek Ends
Kings Creek eventually flows into Mississippi Lake. This point where it joins the lake is called its "mouth." The elevation at the mouth of Kings Creek is about 134 m (440 ft) above sea level.
Kings Creek's Journey to Mississippi Lake
After starting its journey, Kings Creek travels a short distance before reaching Mississippi Lake. Mississippi Lake is a large freshwater lake in Ontario. It is also part of a bigger system called the Mississippi River (Ontario) system. This means that water from Kings Creek eventually becomes part of the Mississippi River.
What is a Tributary?
A tributary is a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger river or lake. Kings Creek is a tributary to the Mississippi River system because its water joins Mississippi Lake, which then connects to the Mississippi River.
Why Are Creeks Important?
Creeks like Kings Creek are very important for many reasons. They are a vital part of the water cycle, helping to move water across the land.
Homes for Wildlife
Creeks provide homes for many different kinds of plants and animals. Fish, insects, and small mammals often live in or near creeks. The plants growing along the banks also rely on the creek's water.
Natural Waterways
Creeks help drain water from the surrounding land, especially after rain or snowmelt. This helps prevent flooding in some areas. They also carry nutrients and sediments, which are important for the ecosystems downstream.
