Sands Creek facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sands Creek |
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|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| State | New York |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Russell Lake Delaware County, New York 1,690 ft (520 m) 42°03′42″N 75°18′14″W / 42.0617518°N 75.3037843°W |
| River mouth | West Branch Delaware River Hancock, New York, Delaware County, New York, United States 41°57′18″N 75°17′49″W / 41.95500°N 75.29694°W |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 18.1 sq mi (47 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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Sands Creek is a small but important river located in Delaware County, New York. It flows into a larger river called the West Branch Delaware River near the town of Hancock, New York. This creek is part of a much bigger river system that eventually reaches the Atlantic Ocean.
Sands Creek plays a role in the local environment. It provides a home for different kinds of fish and other wildlife. The creek also helps carry water from the land to larger rivers. This process is important for keeping the natural water cycle going.
Contents
What is Sands Creek?
Sands Creek is a natural waterway. It starts from a place called Russell Lake. This lake is high up in Delaware County, New York. From there, the creek flows downhill, picking up water from smaller streams.
The creek travels about 18.1 square miles. This area is called its drainage basin. All the rain and snow that falls in this basin eventually flows into Sands Creek.
Where Does Sands Creek Flow?
Sands Creek flows generally south-southwest. It winds through forests and open areas. Along its journey, it gets water from other small streams. These streams are called tributaries.
Some of the smaller streams that join Sands Creek include:
- Bear Brook
- Dry Brook
- Pine Swamp Brook
Finally, Sands Creek meets the West Branch Delaware River. This happens near the town of Hancock. The West Branch Delaware River is a major river in the region.
The Delaware River System
Sands Creek is a part of the larger Delaware River system. The Delaware River is one of the most important rivers in the eastern United States. It flows through several states.
The Delaware River provides drinking water for millions of people. It also supports many types of plants and animals. Rivers like Sands Creek are vital to the health of this larger system. They bring fresh water and nutrients.
Importance of Rivers
Rivers are very important for many reasons:
- Water Supply: They provide fresh water for drinking, farming, and industry.
- Habitat: Rivers are home to fish, insects, birds, and other wildlife.
- Transportation: Historically, rivers were used for moving goods and people.
- Recreation: People enjoy activities like fishing, boating, and swimming in rivers.
- Ecosystem Health: Rivers help shape the land and support diverse ecosystems.
Sands Creek, though small, contributes to these important functions. It helps keep the local environment healthy. It also plays a part in the larger water system of New York State.
