Rathdrum Prairie facts for kids

The Rathdrum Prairie is a large, flat area of land located in the state of Idaho in the United States. It's like a big, open field where several towns and cities are located. This prairie is an important place because it sits on top of a huge underground water supply called an aquifer, which provides drinking water for many people.

What is the Rathdrum Prairie?

The Rathdrum Prairie is a wide, flat area of land. It is sometimes called a "prairie" because of its open, level landscape. Prairies are often covered in grasses and can be found in many parts of the world. This particular prairie is special because of its history and the important water source beneath it.

Where is Rathdrum Prairie?

The Rathdrum Prairie is found in Kootenai County, Idaho. It is surrounded by different natural features. To the north, you'll find Eightmile Prairie. The Selkirk Mountains are to the northwest and south. Lake Coeur d'Alene is to the southeast, and the Spokane Valley is to the west. The Coeur d'Alene Mountains, which are part of the larger Rocky Mountains, are also nearby, and Hayden Lake is to the east.

Cities in the Prairie

Several cities and towns are built on the Rathdrum Prairie. These include Coeur d'Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, Rathdrum, State Line, and Huetter. These communities use the land for homes, businesses, and farms.

Water Under the Ground

A very important part of the Rathdrum Prairie is what lies beneath it: the Spokane Valley–Rathdrum Prairie Aquifer. An aquifer is like a giant underground sponge that holds water. This aquifer is a major source of clean drinking water for the people living in the cities on the prairie and even for some areas in nearby Washington state. The Spokane River and Rathdrum Creek are also important water sources in the area.