Patterson Creek (Deep River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Patterson Creek |
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Location of Patterson Creek mouth
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| Other name(s) | Tributary to Deep River |
| Country | United States |
| State | North Carolina |
| County | Lee |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | divide of Persimmon Creek and Raccoon Creek pond about 1 mile west of Sanford, North Carolina 425 ft (130 m) 35°27′57″N 079°13′32″W / 35.46583°N 79.22556°W |
| River mouth | Deep River about 1.5 miles southeast of Gulf, North Carolina 208 ft (63 m) 35°32′34″N 079°15′21″W / 35.54278°N 79.25583°W |
| Length | 7.72 mi (12.42 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | generally north |
| River system | Deep River |
| Basin size | 7.22 square miles (18.7 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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| Bridges | NC 42, Royal Pines Drive, Carbonton Drive, Petty Road |
Patterson Creek is a small stream in Lee County, North Carolina. It flows for about 7.72 mi (12.42 km) (about 12.4 kilometers). This creek is a "second-order tributary," which means it's a stream formed when two smaller streams (called first-order streams) join together. Patterson Creek eventually flows into the larger Deep River.
Contents
Where Does Patterson Creek Flow?
Patterson Creek begins its journey in a pond. This pond is located about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) west of the town of Sanford, North Carolina. From there, the creek generally flows north. It travels through the landscape until it reaches the Deep River. The spot where Patterson Creek joins the Deep River is about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) southeast of Gulf, North Carolina.
Understanding the Patterson Creek Watershed
A watershed is like a big bowl that collects all the rain and snowmelt in an area, directing it into a specific river or stream. The Patterson Creek watershed covers an area of about 7.22 square miles (18.7 km2) (about 18.7 square kilometers).
Rainfall and Forest Cover
This area receives a good amount of rain each year, about 47.7 inches (121 centimeters). A large part of the watershed, about 72%, is covered by forests. These forests are important because they help keep the water clean and provide homes for many plants and animals. They also help prevent floods by soaking up rainwater.
Bridges Over Patterson Creek
Several roads cross over Patterson Creek. These include:
- NC 42
- Royal Pines Drive
- Carbonton Drive
- Petty Road
These bridges allow people and vehicles to travel easily across the creek.
