Missouri River Valley facts for kids
The Missouri River Valley is a giant natural area shaped by the Missouri River. This amazing valley stretches all the way from where the river begins in Montana to where it joins the mighty Mississippi River in the state of Missouri. It's like a long, winding path carved by water!
At about 2,300 miles (3,700 km) long, the Missouri River Valley is the longest river valley in North America. It's so big that it drains, or collects water from, one-sixth of the entire United States. Imagine how much land that is! The valley includes the flat areas right next to the river, called river bottoms, and wider areas that sometimes get covered in water, known as floodplains.
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What is the Missouri River Valley?
The Missouri River Valley is the land that surrounds the Missouri River. Think of it as a giant ditch or groove in the Earth, created by the river flowing through it for thousands of years. This valley isn't just the river itself; it includes all the land that the river has shaped.
Where Does the River Start and End?
The Missouri River begins in the beautiful mountains of Montana. It's formed when three smaller rivers, the Madison, Jefferson, and Gallatin River, flow together. This starting point is called the river's headwaters. From there, the river travels across many states.
Its long journey ends when it meets the much larger Mississippi River. This meeting point is called a confluence. It happens near the city of St. Louis in the state of Missouri. So, the valley stretches from the mountains to almost the middle of the country!
Why is This Valley So Important?
The Missouri River Valley is incredibly important for many reasons. First, it provides water for millions of people, farms, and animals. The river and its valley have been a major pathway for travel and trade for centuries. Native American tribes lived along its banks for thousands of years, and later, explorers like Lewis and Clark used it to explore the western parts of North America.
The valley's rich soil, especially in the floodplains, is great for farming. Many different plants and animals also call this valley home, making it an important place for nature and wildlife. The river and its valley are a vital part of the United States' history, geography, and environment.
Images for kids
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Pick-Sloan Plan for Missouri River Basin, 1992. This plan helped manage the river's water.
