Mad River (Ohio) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mad River |
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The Mad River flowing under Harshman Road in Riverside, Ohio
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| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | ~ 2 mi (3.2 km) northeast of Bellefontaine ~ 1,450 ft (440 m) |
| River mouth | Great Miami River at Dayton ~ 750 ft (230 m) |
| Length | 66 miles (106 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 657 sq mi (1,700 km2) |
The Mad River is a stream in central Ohio, USA. Its name in the Shawnee language is Hathennithiipi. It flows about 66 miles (106 km) from Logan County, Ohio to Dayton, Ohio. In Dayton, it joins the Great Miami River at Deeds Park.
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The Mad River: A Cool Ohio Stream
The Mad River starts near Campbell Hill (Ohio), which is the highest point in Ohio. From there, it flows southwest. It passes through towns like West Liberty, Ohio and Springfield, Ohio. Near Springfield, another stream called Buck Creek flows into the Mad River. The river then continues its journey into Dayton.
Why is it Called the "Mad River"?
The river got its name because of how fast and wild its water can be. It has a "mad," or very rapid, current. In the past, people also called it "Mad Creek" or "Tiber River." Some even used the Croatian name "Fiume Mad," which also means "Mad River."
A River's History: Roads and Mountains
The Mad River area was important for early settlers. In 1797, the "Mad River Road" was built. This was the first road connecting Cincinnati and Dayton. It helped people move into the "Mad River Country." Today, a popular ski resort called Mad River Mountain is located close to where the river begins.
The Great Dayton Flood of 1913
The Mad River is one of the streams that flows into the Great Miami River. In 1913, the Mad River was part of a huge flood. This event was known as the Great Dayton Flood. It caused a lot of damage in Dayton. Because of this flood, the Miami Conservancy District was created. This group helps manage the rivers and prevent future floods.
Home to Coldwater Fish
The Mad River is special because it's the largest place in Ohio for Coldwater fish. These are fish that need very cool water to live. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources often adds rainbow trout and brown trout to the river. This helps keep the fish population healthy.
Protecting the River's Fish
Even though many fish are added, it's hard for trout to have babies in the Mad River. This is because of several problems. Sometimes, the river's path has been changed by people (called channelization). This can make the water muddy, which is called sedimentation. Also, water from farms (called agricultural runoff) can flow into the river. These things can harm the fish and their homes. People are working to protect the river and its fish.
