Little Wood River (Idaho) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Little Wood River |
|
|---|---|
Little Wood River, south of Richfield
|
|
 
Location of the mouth of the Little Wood River in Idaho
|
|
| Other name(s) | McArthurs River & Wood River |
| Country | United States |
| State | Idaho |
| Region | Blaine County, Lincoln County, Gooding County |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Pioneer Mountains Blaine County 9,832 ft (2,997 m) 43°45′41″N 114°0′13″W / 43.76139°N 114.00361°W |
| River mouth | Malad River Gooding County 3,460 ft (1,050 m) 42°56′42″N 114°47′46″W / 42.94500°N 114.79611°W |
| Length | 130 mi (210 km) |
The Little Wood River is a river in south-central Idaho, United States. It is about 130 miles (209 km) long. This river is a tributary of the Malad River. The Malad River then flows into the Snake River, which eventually joins the Columbia River.
Contents
Journey of the Little Wood River
The Little Wood River begins high up in the Pioneer Mountains. This is in the northern part of Blaine County. From there, it flows south.
Through the Reservoir
As the river travels, it reaches the Little Wood Reservoir. This large reservoir is near the town of Carey. The reservoir helps to control the river's flow.
Flowing South and West
After the reservoir, the river continues its journey south. It flows into Lincoln County, passing by the town of Richfield. Then, it turns west and flows past Shoshone. Finally, it enters Gooding County.
Just west of the town of Gooding, the Little Wood River meets another river, the Big Wood River. When these two rivers join, they form the Malad River. One smaller stream that flows into the Little Wood River is called Baugh Creek.
Water for Farms
The Little Wood River is very important for the farms in this area. It provides the main source of irrigation water for eastern Blaine County and most of Lincoln County. Irrigation is how farmers bring water to their crops.
The first people to settle permanently in the Carey area were attracted by the river's water. Today, the river's water flow is managed by reservoirs. It is also affected by water being taken out for irrigation canals.
Other Names for the River
Sometimes, the Little Wood River has been known by other names. These include McArthurs River and Wood River.
