Pumpkin Patch Brook facts for kids
Pumpkin Patch Brook is a small stream located in New Jersey, a state in the United States. It flows through parts of Union and Middlesex counties. This brook is a "tributary," which means it's a smaller stream that flows into a larger one. Pumpkin Patch Brook flows into Robinson's Branch, which is part of the Rahway River system.
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Exploring Pumpkin Patch Brook
Where Does It Flow?
Pumpkin Patch Brook starts its journey in Woodbridge Township. From there, it flows north into Clark Township. Where the brook meets Robinson's Branch, there's a special area called a "wetland." Wetlands are like natural sponges. They are areas of land that are covered by water, either all the time or just for certain periods. They are very important for nature.
Understanding Flooding
The area around Pumpkin Patch Brook sometimes gets flooded. This often happens because of "backflow" from Robinson's Branch. Backflow means that water from the larger branch flows back into the brook, causing it to overflow. Usually, the flooding along Pumpkin Patch Brook is not too severe. It is often described as "moderate" flooding.
Why Does Flooding Happen?
Even though the flooding is usually moderate, most of the flooding that happens in Clark Township comes from Pumpkin Patch Brook. When big storms like hurricanes or "nor'easters" hit, the flooding can become more serious in both Clark and Woodbridge Townships.
Over the years, many homes and buildings have been built in these areas. This is called "suburban development." When land is developed, more of it becomes covered with hard surfaces like roads and buildings. These surfaces are "impervious," meaning water cannot soak into them. Instead, the rainwater runs off these surfaces quickly. This extra water can cause the brook to overflow its banks, leading to more flooding.
