Little Humboldt River facts for kids
The Little Humboldt River is a stream in northern Nevada, in the western United States. It flows into the larger Humboldt River. The Little Humboldt River is about 60 miles (97 km) long. It is an intermittent stream, which means it doesn't always have water flowing in it all year round. It helps drain a wild, rugged area near the Owyhee Desert in the Great Basin.
About the Little Humboldt River
The Little Humboldt River is an important part of the natural landscape in northern Nevada. It helps carry water from mountains and high lands down to the main Humboldt River. Even though it doesn't flow all the time, it provides water for plants and animals in the area when it does.
Where Does It Start?
The Little Humboldt River actually starts as two separate streams, like two arms reaching out. These are called the North Fork and the South Fork.
- The North Fork is about 45 miles (72 km) long. It begins in the northeastern part of Humboldt County. It starts near the Santa Rosa Mountains and flows towards the southeast, along the edge of the Owyhee Desert.
- The South Fork is about 40 miles (64 km) long. It starts in the very western part of Elko County, near a place called Jake Creek Mountain. It flows generally towards the northwest.
These two forks eventually meet up in eastern Humboldt County. After they join, the river flows southwest along the eastern side of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Finally, it connects with the main Humboldt River about 5 miles (8 km) northeast of Winnemucca.
Water for the Land
The river's water is used for different purposes. Near where its two forks join, the river's flow is held back to create the Chimney Dam Reservoir. This reservoir helps store water.
Sometimes, there have been discussions about how the land around the river is used, especially about how many animals graze there. It's important to manage the land carefully so that the river and its surroundings stay healthy for everyone, including the wildlife and plants that depend on it.
