Outlet Creek facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Outlet Creek |
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Outlet Creek at Longvale, California
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| Region | Mendocino County |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Willits, California 1,342 ft (409 m) 39°27′03″N 123°20′54″W / 39.45083°N 123.34833°W |
| River mouth | Eel River 1,014 ft (309 m) 39°37′37″N 123°20′43″W / 39.62694°N 123.34528°W |
| Length | 17 mi (27 km) |
Outlet Creek is a stream in California. It is a branch, or tributary, of the Eel River. The creek flows north from the Little Lake Valley through a canyon in the California Coast Ranges mountains.
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About Outlet Creek
Outlet Creek is about 17 miles (27 kilometers) long. It starts near the town of Willits, California in the Little Lake Valley. From there, it flows north and eventually joins the Eel River. The Eel River is one of the largest rivers in California.
Its Journey Through the Canyon
As Outlet Creek flows, it passes through a deep canyon. This canyon is part of the California Coast Ranges. The creek's path is quite important for transportation.
The Northwestern Pacific Railroad has built bridges over Outlet Creek twelve times! This shows how closely the railroad follows the creek through the canyon. Also, California State Route 162 crosses the creek once. It follows the canyon closely after the town of Longvale, California. U.S. Route 101 also crosses the creek twice, running near it before Longvale.
What the Creek Flows Through
The land around Outlet Creek changes as it flows. Near the Little Lake Valley, the creek flows over soft, loose soil and rocks. These materials were laid down by water a long time ago.
Further downstream, especially after Longvale, the creek cuts through older, harder rocks. These rocks are part of something called the Franciscan Assemblage. This is a group of rocks that formed deep in the Earth and were later pushed up to the surface.
Importance of Outlet Creek
Outlet Creek is very important for many reasons. It helps keep the local environment healthy.
Water Supply
The creek helps to refill groundwater. Groundwater is water stored underground in natural spaces. This water can then be used by people. Outlet Creek also provides water for farms and industries in the area.
Wildlife Habitat
Outlet Creek is a home for many animals. It provides a special place called cold freshwater habitat. This means the water is cool and clean. This type of habitat is very important for fish.
Fish use the creek for migration and spawning. Migration means they travel up and down the creek. Spawning is when fish lay their eggs. The cool, clean water helps young fish grow.
Recreation
People also use Outlet Creek for fun activities. It's a place where people can enjoy nature. This might include fishing or just enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
