Mill Creek (West Kill) facts for kids

Mill Creek is a small stream located in New York State, United States. It flows through the landscape and eventually joins a larger body of water. This meeting point is called a "convergence." Mill Creek converges with another stream known as West Kill. This happens near the town of North Blenheim, New York.

What is a Creek?

A creek is a natural flowing watercourse. It is usually smaller than a river. Creeks are also sometimes called streams, brooks, or even runs. They play a very important role in nature.

How Creeks Form

Creeks often start from springs or from rain and snow melting. The water flows downhill, following the lowest path. As it flows, it carves out a channel in the ground. This channel becomes the creek bed.

The Journey of a Creek

Water in a creek is always moving. It carries sediment like sand and small rocks. It also carries nutrients. These nutrients are important for plants and animals. Creeks flow into larger streams, rivers, or even lakes. Mill Creek flows into West Kill.

Importance of Creeks

Creeks are vital for many reasons. They provide homes for wildlife. They also help keep the environment healthy.

Home for Animals

Many animals live in or near creeks. Fish, insects, and amphibians like frogs and salamanders depend on creek water. Birds and mammals also visit creeks to drink water. They find food there too.

Water for Plants

Plants grow well along creek banks. The water helps them thrive. These plants, in turn, help keep the creek healthy. Their roots hold the soil in place. This stops the banks from washing away.

Connecting Waterways

Creeks act like small highways for water. They connect different parts of a watershed. A watershed is an area of land where all the water drains into a common point. Mill Creek is part of a larger watershed system.

Mill Creek's Location

Mill Creek is found in a specific part of New York. It is in Schoharie County, New York.

North Blenheim Area

The creek's meeting point with West Kill is near North Blenheim. This is a small community. The landscape around the creek would likely include hills and forests. This is typical for many parts of New York State.