Louse Kill facts for kids

Louse Kill is a small stream, also known as a "kill," located in New York State. It flows into Fox Creek near the village of Schoharie, New York. This stream is an important part of the local water system.

What is a "Kill"?

The word "kill" might sound a bit strange for a stream. It comes from the old Dutch word "kil." Many places in New York, especially those settled by the Dutch, use "kill" to mean a creek or stream. So, Louse Kill is simply a small waterway.

Where is Louse Kill Located?

Louse Kill is found in Schoharie County, New York. This county is in the eastern part of New York State. The stream's journey ends when it joins Fox Creek. This meeting point is close to the historic village of Schoharie.

The Journey of Louse Kill's Water

Louse Kill is a tributary to Fox Creek. This means it's a smaller stream that flows into a larger one. Fox Creek then flows into the Schoharie Creek. The Schoharie Creek is a major river in the area. It eventually joins the Mohawk River, which then flows into the Hudson River. This shows how Louse Kill's water is part of a much bigger river system.

The area that collects water for Louse Kill is called its basin. Louse Kill's basin covers about 2.9 square miles. This is the total land area where rain and snowmelt drain into the stream.

Why are Small Streams Important?

Even small streams like Louse Kill play a big role in nature. They provide water for plants and animals. Many small creatures, like insects and fish, live in these streams. They also help to carry water from the land to larger rivers. This process helps keep the entire ecosystem healthy.

Small streams also help to filter water. As water flows over rocks and soil, some pollutants can be removed. This natural cleaning process is vital for the quality of water in larger rivers downstream.