River Hiz facts for kids
Quick facts for kids River Hiz |
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The river in Arlesey
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| Country | England |
| Counties | Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | South of Charlton at Wellhead |
| River mouth | River Ivel Near Henlow |
| Length | 8.1 miles (13.0 km) |
The River Hiz is a special type of river called a chalk river. It flows for about 13 kilometers (or 8.1 miles). This river starts in the south of a village called Charlton. From there, it travels through the county of Hertfordshire.
The River Hiz then makes its way northeast into the town of Hitchin. Along its journey, other smaller rivers join it. Finally, the Hiz meets the River Ivel near the village of Henlow.
Contents
The Journey of the River Hiz
The River Hiz begins its flow south of Wellhead, Charlton. It then winds its way through the beautiful countryside of Hertfordshire. The river moves generally northeast, passing through the town of Hitchin.
Where the River Begins and Flows
The Hiz is a tributary of the Ivel. This means it is a smaller river that flows into a larger one. The Hiz joins the River Ivel near the village of Henlow. Its total length is about 13 kilometers (8.1 miles).
Rivers Joining the Hiz
Two important rivers flow into the Hiz, adding to its water. These are called tributaries.
- The River Oughton joins the Hiz near a place called Ickleford.
- The River Purwell also flows into the Hiz.
Understanding the River's Water
Scientists study the River Hiz to understand its water. They look at things like how deep it is and how healthy it is.
How We Measure River Depth
There is a special measuring station on the River Hiz at Arlesey. This station helps us know how deep the river is. The Environment Agency manages this station. They keep track of the river's water levels.
| Station | Typical Depth Range | Deepest Recorded Depth (m) | Date of Highest Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arlesey | 0.13m-0.26m | 1.40 m | 27 September 2024 |
How Human Actions Affect the River
The River Hiz is considered "heavily modified." This means that people have changed its natural shape and flow over time. These changes can be from building near the river or altering its banks. Because of these changes, the river does not have a "good ecological status." This means its natural environment and health are not as good as they could be.
Wildlife of the River Hiz
The River Hiz is home to many different kinds of plants and animals. These species depend on the river for their survival.
Plants and Animals Living in the Hiz
Here are some of the interesting species you might find living in or near the River Hiz:
| Species Name | Scientific Name |
|---|---|
| Marsh Orchid | Dactylorhiza |
| Cowslip | Primula veris |
| Yellow Flag Iris | Iris pseudacorus |
| Kingfisher | Alcedo atthis |
| Water Vole | Arvicola amphibius |
| Trout | Salmo trutta |
Where Does the Name "Hiz" Come From?
The name of the River Hiz has a long history! It is thought to be connected to an ancient tribe called the Hicce. This tribe lived in the area a very long time ago. They also gave their name to the town of Hitchin.
Some experts believe that the name "Hiz" might have come from "Hitchin." The "z" in Hiz was once a way to write "ts" or "tch" in old documents like the Domesday Book. So, the river's name was probably pronounced more like "Hitch" in the past. Today, most people say it as it is spelled, "Hiz."
