Menomonee River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Menomonee River |
|
|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Milwaukee River Basin |
| Length | 33 miles (53.1 km) |
See also Menominee River
The Menomonee River is one of the three main rivers in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It's an important waterway that flows through different parts of the city and nearby areas.
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About the Menomonee River
What's in a Name?
The Menomonee River gets its name from the Menominee people, a Native American tribe. The word "Menomonee" comes from the Chippewa language. It means "rice eaters." This name was given because a lot of wild rice used to grow along the river's banks in the Menomonee Valley.
Where Does It Flow?
The Menomonee River is about 33 miles (53.1 kilometers) long. It flows through a large area called a watershed, which covers about 140 square miles (363 square kilometers). This area includes parts of Washington, Ozaukee, Waukesha, and Milwaukee counties. More than 336,000 people live in this watershed.
The river eventually flows into the Milwaukee River. From there, it empties into Lake Michigan near the Milwaukee harbor. The Kinnickinnic River also joins the Milwaukee River in this area.
The River's Journey Through the City
A big part of the Menomonee River flows through the Menomonee Valley. This area has many factories and businesses. Because of this, the river has been changed a lot over the years. Some parts of it have been straightened and made into channels. This industrial activity has unfortunately caused some pollution in the river.
Parks Along the River
Many parks are located along the Menomonee River, offering places for people to enjoy nature and outdoor activities. Some of these parks include:
- Hart Park
- Hoyt Park
- Jacobus Park
- Three Rivers Park
