Oswego River (New Jersey) facts for kids
The Oswego River is a small river, about 23.7 miles (38.1 kilometers) long, located in the southern part of New Jersey. It flows through a special area called the Pine Barrens, which is known for its unique forests and sandy soil. The Oswego River is a tributary, which means it's a smaller river that flows into a larger one. In this case, it flows into the Wading River.
Where the Oswego River Flows
The Oswego River starts in Burlington County, New Jersey, and winds its way through the beautiful Pine Barrens. This area is famous for its tall pine trees and cedar swamps. The river's waters are often a reddish-brown color because of the cedar trees and iron in the soil.
History and Importance
The Oswego River has been important to the people living in the Pine Barrens for a long time. In the past, its water power was used for industries like ironworks and paper mills. One famous spot along the river is near Harrisville, New Jersey. Here, you can find the Harrisville Dam, which was built in 1932. Even with the dam, the river can sometimes flood, as it did in August 1939.
The river and its surroundings are home to many different plants and animals. It's a great place for nature lovers to explore and learn about the unique ecosystem of the Pine Barrens.
Images for kids
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This picture from June 1939 shows construction work by the WPA on the Oswego River near Harrisville, New Jersey.
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This photo shows the Oswego River flooding on August 20, 1939, near Harrisville, New Jersey. This happened even though the Harrisville Dam was already built.
