North Fork Grand River facts for kids
The North Fork of the Grand River is a cool waterway, about 80 miles (129 kilometers) long. It flows through parts of North Dakota and South Dakota in the United States. Think of it as a smaller stream that eventually joins a bigger river.
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What is the North Fork of the Grand River?
The North Fork of the Grand River is a "tributary." This means it's a smaller river or stream that flows into a larger river. In this case, it flows into the main Grand River. It's an important part of the water system in this area.
Where Does It Start?
This river begins in the Badlands region of southwestern North Dakota. Specifically, it starts in the southern part of Bowman County. The Badlands are known for their unique, rugged landscapes, shaped by wind and water over many years.
Its Journey Through the States
From its starting point, the North Fork flows generally southeast. It travels into the Bowman-Haley Reservoir. This reservoir is a large lake created by the Bowman-Haley Dam. Dams like this are built to control water flow, prevent floods, and sometimes store water for people to use.
After the reservoir, the river continues its journey through northwestern South Dakota. Along its path, it passes through several areas that are part of the Grand River National Grassland. These grasslands are special places managed to protect natural habitats and provide land for grazing animals.
Where Does It End?
The North Fork of the Grand River eventually meets up with another river called the South Fork. They join together near a place called Shadehill. When these two forks combine, they officially form the main Grand River.
Why is the North Fork Important?
This river plays a role in the local environment and for people living nearby.
Water for Wildlife
Rivers like the North Fork provide water for many animals. Fish live in the river, and other wildlife, like deer and birds, use the river for drinking and finding food. The surrounding grasslands also depend on this water source.
The Bowman-Haley Dam
The Bowman-Haley Dam is a key feature on the North Fork. It was built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Dams help manage water resources, which is important for farming and preventing damage from floods. The reservoir behind the dam also creates a place for recreation, like fishing and boating.
Grand River National Grassland
As the river flows through the Grand River National Grassland, it supports the ecosystem of this vast area. National Grasslands are managed by the U.S. Forest Service. They help protect important plant and animal life, and they also support ranching by providing grazing land for cattle.
The North Fork of the Grand River might not be one of the biggest rivers, but it's a vital part of the landscape and environment in North and South Dakota.
