River Clare facts for kids
Quick facts for kids River Clare |
|
|---|---|
_-_geograph.org.uk_-_1255253.jpg)
The Clare on the east side of Lackagh
|
|
| Native name | Abhainn an Chláir |
| Country | Ireland |
| Cities | Claregalway, Corofin, County Galway, Milltown, Ballyhaunis |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | 5 metres (16 ft) 53°19′48″N 9°02′56″W / 53.330°N 9.049°W |
| Length | 93 kilometres (58 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Corrib |
| Basin size | 1,108 km2 (428 sq mi) |
| Tributaries |
|
The River Clare (Irish: Abhainn an Chláir) is a river in Ireland. It flows through County Mayo and County Galway. Its name in Irish means "River of the plain."
River Clare's Journey
The River Clare is about 93 kilometres (58 mi) long. It starts its journey north of Ballyhaunis in County Mayo. From there, it flows past Dunmore. It then turns south past Milltown. The river continues near Kilbennan Church and Tuam.
After passing Turloughmore, the river turns sharply west. It flows north of Claregalway. Finally, it empties into Lough Corrib. The River Corrib then flows from this lake into Galway Bay. The River Clare is the longest river that feeds into Lough Corrib.
What is a Turlough?
A big part of the River Clare used to be a special type of lake. This lake is called a turlough (Irish: turlach). Turloughs are lakes that often dry up in summer. The one connected to the Clare was once Ireland's largest. It covered about 6.5 square kilometers.
Keeping the River Flowing
Since the 1950s, people have been working on the River Clare. They have been doing something called arterial drainage. This means they dig out the riverbed. They also make the river straighter. This helps to prevent big floods. However, it can make it harder for people to get to the river.
River Life and Fun
The River Clare is very important for fish. It is a key place for salmon and trout to lay their eggs. Many people also enjoy fishing here. In the summer, lots of teenagers like to swim in the river.
