Maple River (Grand River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Maple River |
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| Country | United States |
| State | Michigan |
| Counties | Clinton, Ionia, Gratiot, Shiawassee |
| Municipalities | Ovid, Elsie, Maple Rapids, Muir |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Shiawassee Township, Shiawassee County 42°56′42″N 84°6′53″W / 42.94500°N 84.11472°W |
| River mouth | Grand River Muir 42°59′45″N 84°57′18″W / 42.99583°N 84.95500°W |
| Length | 74 mi (119 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 944 sq mi (2,440 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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The Maple River is a cool river in the middle part of Michigan, a state in the United States. It's about 74.1-mile-long (119.3 km), which is like driving for more than an hour! This river is a tributary, meaning it's a smaller river that flows into a bigger one. The Maple River flows into the Grand River.
Contents
Exploring the Maple River's Journey
The Maple River starts its adventure in Shiawassee Township, which is in Shiawassee County. This is south of a city called Owosso. From there, it travels west through several counties.
Counties and Towns Along the Way
As the Maple River flows, it passes through Clinton, Gratiot, and Ionia counties. You can find towns like Ovid, Elsie, and Maple Rapids right along its banks. Finally, the river joins the Grand River near the town of Muir.
Dams and Water Control
Along the Maple River and its smaller streams (called tributaries), there are five main dams. These dams help control the water flow and create lakes. Some of these include Lake Victoria, Lake Ovid, Elsie, Rainbow, and Hubbardston. They are important for managing the river's water.
A Home for Wildlife
A big part of the Maple River, especially in Clinton, Gratiot, and Ionia counties, is known as the Maple River State Game Area. This special area is set aside to protect nature and wildlife. It's a great place for animals to live and for people to enjoy the outdoors, often for activities like birdwatching or observing nature.
