Moxlie Creek facts for kids

Moxlie Creek is a small stream in Thurston County, Washington. It starts from natural springs in Watershed Park in Olympia. The creek then flows north into the East Bay of Budd Inlet. A big part of the creek, more than one-third of its 1.8-mile length, flows underground in pipes. For over 50 years, the water from the park's springs was used as drinking water for the city. You can still see parts of the old water system in the area.

Sometimes, the water in Moxlie Creek isn't as clean as it should be. However, different types of fish can still be found here. You might spot Chinook salmon, coho salmon, and cutthroat trout in the part of the creek that runs through the park. Salmon are especially common in September and October when they return to lay their eggs.

Moxlie Creek was named after R. W. Moxlie, who was one of the first people to settle in the area.

Moxlie Creek's Path

Moxlie Creek begins in Watershed Park from special springs called artesian springs. These springs naturally push water up from underground. The creek then flows north towards Budd Inlet.

Underground Journey

A large section of Moxlie Creek, over one-third of its total length, flows through pipes underground. This means you can't always see the creek as it makes its way to the bay.

Water for the City

For more than 50 years, the clean spring water from Watershed Park was used to supply drinking water for the city of Olympia. You can still find old parts of this water system in the park today.

Creek Life and Water Quality

Moxlie Creek is home to different kinds of fish. These include Chinook salmon, coho salmon, and cutthroat trout. These fish are an important part of the creek's ecosystem.

Fish in the Creek

You can often see salmon in the creek during the fall, especially in September and October. This is when they swim upstream from the ocean to lay their eggs. Trout also live in the creek year-round.

Keeping the Water Clean

Sometimes, the water in Moxlie Creek has small amounts of pollution. Scientists regularly check the water to make sure it is healthy for the fish and other wildlife that live there. Keeping the creek clean helps protect its natural environment.

Moxlie Creek Watershed

The area that collects water for Moxlie Creek is called its watershed. This watershed covers about 1,472 acres. It stretches out in different directions, collecting rainwater and runoff that eventually flows into the creek.

Where the Watershed Reaches

The Moxlie Creek watershed extends southeast towards Boulevard and Log Cabin Roads. It also reaches west into parts of the South Capitol Neighborhood and east to the top of the 4th Avenue hill. All the rain that falls in this large area eventually makes its way into Moxlie Creek.