Piedras River (San Juan, Puerto Rico) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Piedras River |
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| Commonwealth | Puerto Rico |
| Municipality | San Juan |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Caimito |
| River mouth | Puerto Nuevo River in Hato Rey Norte 18°26′16″N 66°04′49″W / 18.4379°N 66.0804°W |
The Piedras River, also known as Río Piedras in Spanish, is an important river in San Juan, Puerto Rico. This river is so well-known that it gave its name to the area called Río Piedras. This area used to be a separate town. Today, it is a district within the big city of San Juan.
Even though the Piedras River flows into the Puerto Nuevo River, the entire area it drains is often called the Río Piedras watershed. A watershed is like a big bowl where all the rain and water collect and flow into one main river. This watershed is very important for the environment around the San Juan Bay estuary. An estuary is where a river meets the sea, mixing fresh and saltwater. It's also vital for the metropolitan region, which is a large city area. Many small creeks and streams feed the Piedras River. These smaller waterways start in the neighborhoods of Caimito and Cupey.
Contents
What is the Piedras River?
The Piedras River is a natural waterway in Puerto Rico. It flows through the capital city of San Juan. The river helps shape the landscape and supports local wildlife. It is a key part of the island's natural water system.
Where Does the River Start and End?
The Piedras River begins in the hilly areas of Caimito and Cupey. These are neighborhoods within San Juan. Many small streams join together to form the main river. The river then flows until it meets the Puerto Nuevo River. This meeting point is in the Hato Rey Norte area of San Juan.
Why is the River Important?
The Piedras River and its watershed are very important for several reasons:
- Environment: The river helps keep the San Juan Bay estuary healthy. Estuaries are special places where many different plants and animals live. They are like nurseries for fish and other sea creatures.
- Water Flow: It helps manage rainwater in the metropolitan region. This helps prevent flooding in some areas.
- History: The river has been a part of San Juan's history for a long time. It even gave its name to a major district.
Images for kids
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The historic Río Piedras Bridge in 1911.
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The river near El Cinco district.
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The river near El Cinco.
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Río Piedras Bridge in 2017.
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Map of the Piedras and Puerto Nuevo river basin.
See also
- Old Piedras River Aqueduct
- List of rivers of Puerto Rico
