Ross Fork facts for kids

Ross Fork is a stream located in the state of Idaho, USA. It flows through Bannock and Bingham counties. This stream is like a smaller river that eventually joins the larger Snake River. Ross Fork first flows into Clear Creek, and then Clear Creek connects to the Snake River at a place called the American Falls Reservoir.

Ross Fork: A Stream in Idaho

The land area that drains water into Ross Fork is called its watershed. Most of this watershed is located within the Fort Hall Indian Reservation. This reservation is in southeastern Idaho.

Water Flow and Challenges

Ross Fork used to flow with water all year long. However, now it often dries up later in the summer months. This means the water stops flowing in some parts of the stream.

One challenge for Ross Fork is an unwanted plant called white bryonia. This plant is not originally from Idaho. It has poisonous berries and is sometimes called the "Kudzu of the West." White bryonia has spread along the stream. It is causing problems by harming the variety of plants and animals that naturally live there.

The stream also faces issues with erosion. Erosion happens when soil and rocks are worn away by the water. This can change the shape of the stream banks.

Water Management and Wildlife

The amount of water flowing in Ross Fork changes throughout the year. It gets most of its water from snow melting in the spring. Water is also taken from the stream for irrigation. Irrigation is when water is moved to help grow crops. These irrigation systems are managed by a group called the Bureau of Indian Affairs Fort Hall Irrigation Project. This project helps manage water for farming on the Fort Hall Indian Reservation.

Ross Fork is also home to a special type of fish called the Yellowstone cutthroat trout. These fish are important because they are a very pure kind of their species. This means they have not mixed with other types of trout.

Historical Connections

Along the banks of Ross Fork, you can find some of the best-preserved parts of the Oregon Trail. The Oregon Trail was a famous path that pioneers used many years ago to travel across the western United States.