Salt Brook facts for kids
Salt Brook is a small tributary (a smaller stream that flows into a larger one) of the Passaic River. You can find it in Union County, New Jersey in the United States.
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About Salt Brook
Salt Brook is an important local waterway. It helps carry water from a specific area into a larger river system.
Where Does Salt Brook Flow?
Salt Brook begins its journey in Summit, New Jersey. It starts in the higher lands located southwest of Memorial Field. From there, it flows first north, then west through Summit. The brook then continues its path through New Providence, New Jersey. Finally, it joins the larger Passaic River in New Providence.
How Big is Salt Brook?
This brook is not very long. It stretches for about 5 miles (about 8 kilometers). In most places, Salt Brook is about 15 feet (about 4.5 meters) wide. Water from the western part of Summit flows into Salt Brook. Most of New Providence also drains its water into the Passaic River using Salt Brook.
Why is it Called Salt Brook?
There's a cool story about how Salt Brook got its name! Local tradition says that during the American Revolutionary War, people living nearby dumped their salt into the brook. They did this to keep it from falling into the hands of British soldiers who were advancing. This clever trick supposedly gave the brook its unique name.
Salt Brook Elementary School
The brook is so well-known in the area that a school is named after it! In New Providence, there is an elementary school called Salt Brook Elementary School. It is located just north of the brook itself.
What About Flooding?
Sometimes, Salt Brook can cause problems with flooding. This happens especially in the Memorial Field area of Summit. Parts of New Providence can also experience flooding along the brook.
