Mashpee River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mashpee River |
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Mashpee River and environs
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| Country | United States |
| State | Massachusetts |
| Region | Mashpee |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Mashpee and Wakeby Ponds 41°39′08″N 70°29′07″W / 41.6522°N 70.4853°W |
| River mouth | Popponesset Bay 41°35′46″N 70°28′01″W / 41.596°N 70.467°W |
| Length | 4.8 mi (7.7 km) |
The Mashpee River is a 4.8-mile-long (7.7 km) tidal river located on Cape Cod in Mashpee, Massachusetts. It is a unique waterway because its flow and water levels are greatly influenced by the ocean's tides. This river plays an important role in the local environment and has been a focus of conservation efforts for many years.
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What is a Tidal River?
A tidal river is a river where the water level changes with the ocean's tides. When the tide comes in, saltwater from the ocean flows upstream into the river. When the tide goes out, the river's fresh water flows back towards the ocean. This mix of fresh and saltwater creates a special environment called a estuary.
Why are Estuaries Important?
Estuaries, like the Mashpee River, are very important natural places. They are often called "nurseries of the sea." Many young fish, crabs, and other marine animals grow up in these protected waters. The mix of fresh and saltwater supports a wide variety of plants and animals.
Where the Mashpee River Flows
The Mashpee River begins in two beautiful freshwater lakes: Mashpee and Wakeby Ponds. These ponds are its main source of water. From there, the river flows south for a short distance.
Journey to the Bay
As it travels, the Mashpee River eventually reaches Popponesset Bay. This bay is part of the larger Nantucket Sound, which connects to the Atlantic Ocean. The river's journey ends when its waters mix with the bay's saltwater in an area known as Pirate's Cove.
Protecting the Mashpee River
People have been working to protect the Mashpee River and its surrounding lands for a very long time. Efforts to conserve this special area started as early as 1915. This shows how important the river has been to the community for over a century.
The Mashpee River Reservation
Today, much of the land around the river is part of the Mashpee River Reservation. This reservation is a protected natural area. It is owned and cared for by a non-profit organization called The Trustees of Reservations.
What The Trustees Do
The Trustees of Reservations is a group dedicated to preserving special places in Massachusetts. They work to protect natural and historical sites for everyone to enjoy. For the Mashpee River, they help keep the river and its shores healthy. This includes protecting the plants and animals that live there. Their work ensures that future generations can also experience the beauty of the Mashpee River.
