Locust Creek (Grand River tributary) facts for kids
Locust Creek is a stream that flows through several counties in Iowa and Missouri, United States. It starts in Wayne County, Iowa, and then makes its way through Putnam, Sullivan, Linn, Chariton, and Livingston counties in Missouri. This creek is a smaller stream that eventually flows into a larger one called the Grand River.
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Where Locust Creek Begins and Ends
Locust Creek starts its journey in the southeastern part of Wayne County, Iowa. The exact spot where it begins is called its headwaters. This area is about three miles southwest of a town called Seymour, Iowa. From there, the creek flows south into Putnam County, Missouri.
The Creek's Path Through Missouri
As Locust Creek continues its flow, it passes under a major road, US Route 136, about six miles west of Unionville. It then enters Sullivan County, passing west of Pollock. The creek generally flows south, staying to the west of Missouri Route 5. It goes past the west side of Milan and through a special area called the Locust Creek Conservation Area. Further south, it passes east of Reger.
The creek then enters Linn County, just west of Browning. In Linn County, it flows past the communities of Purdin, Linneus, and Laclede. After Laclede, the creek turns southwest and flows through Pershing State Park, a beautiful natural area.
Joining the Grand River
After leaving Linn County, Locust Creek forms the border between Chariton and Livingston counties. Finally, it reaches its confluence (the point where two rivers or streams join) with the Grand River. This meeting point is just west of the town of Sumner. At Linneus, the creek typically carries about 351 cubic feet of water per second, which is a good amount of flow!
Why is it Called Locust Creek?
Locust Creek got its name from the many black locust and honey locust trees that grow along its banks. These trees were very common in the area when the creek was first named, making it a fitting description for this waterway.
