Platte Kill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Platte Kill |
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|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| State | New York |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Delaware County, New York |
| River mouth | East Branch Delaware River Dunraven, New York, Delaware County, New York, United States 42°07′31″N 74°41′34″W / 42.12528°N 74.69278°W |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 35.4 sq mi (92 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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The Platte Kill is a small river, or "kill," located in New York State, United States. It flows through a beautiful area known as Delaware County, New York. This river is an important part of the local water system. It eventually joins a larger river called the East Branch Delaware River.
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Where is Platte Kill?
The Platte Kill is found in the state of New York. It starts in Delaware County, New York. This county is in the southeastern part of New York State. The river flows through a mostly rural area.
The River's Journey
Every river has a starting point, called its source. For the Platte Kill, its source is also in Delaware County. From there, it travels a short distance. It winds its way through the landscape.
Joining a Bigger River
The Platte Kill's journey ends when it flows into the East Branch Delaware River. This happens near a small community. That community is called Dunraven, New York. The East Branch Delaware River is much larger. It is a major part of the Delaware River system.
How Big is the Platte Kill?
Even though it's a "kill" (a Dutch word for a small stream or river), the Platte Kill is important. The area of land that drains water into the Platte Kill is called its basin. This basin covers about 35.4 square miles. That's like a big funnel collecting rainwater.
What is a River Basin?
A river basin is all the land where water flows downhill. This water eventually ends up in a specific river. So, all the rain and snow that falls in the Platte Kill's basin will flow into it. This water helps keep the river full.
Why are Rivers Important?
Rivers like the Platte Kill are vital for many reasons. They provide fresh water for plants and animals. They also help shape the land.
Nature's Pathways
Rivers create natural pathways through the land. They carry water from higher elevations to lower ones. This movement of water helps create different habitats. Many types of fish and other wildlife live in and around rivers.
Connecting Communities
Rivers also connect different places. The Platte Kill connects its source area to the East Branch Delaware River. This larger river then flows to other parts of the state and beyond. Rivers have been important for travel and trade for centuries.
