South Branch Souhegan River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids South Branch Souhegan River |
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| Country | United States |
| States | Massachusetts, New Hampshire |
| Counties | Worcester, MA, Middlesex, MA, Hillsborough, NH |
| Towns | Ashburnham, MA, Ashby, MA, New Ipswich, NH |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Stodge Meadow Pond Ashburnham, MA 1,129 ft (344 m) 42°40′11″N 71°52′53″W / 42.66972°N 71.88139°W |
| River mouth | Souhegan River New Ipswich, NH 927 ft (283 m) 42°43′52″N 71°50′47″W / 42.73111°N 71.84639°W |
| Length | 5.8 mi (9.3 km) |
The South Branch of the Souhegan River is a river about 5.8 miles (9.3 km) long. It flows through northern Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire in the United States. This river is a tributary, which means it's a smaller stream that flows into a larger river. The South Branch flows into the Souhegan River. From there, its water eventually reaches the Merrimack River and then the Gulf of Maine in the Atlantic Ocean.
About the South Branch Souhegan River
The South Branch Souhegan River is an important part of the local water system. It helps carry water from smaller ponds and streams into bigger rivers. Rivers like this are home to many different plants and animals. They also provide water for people and wildlife.
Where Does It Start and Go?
The journey of the South Branch begins near Mount Watatic. It starts at a place called Stodge Meadow Pond, which is in the town of Ashburnham, Massachusetts.
From there, the river flows north. Along its way, it passes through a series of small lakes. These lakes include Marble Pond, Ward Pond, and Watatic Pond. After these lakes, the river turns and heads northeast into the town of Ashby, Massachusetts.
Joining Other Rivers
Once the river leaves Ashby, it enters New Ipswich, New Hampshire. Here, it flows through a small area designed to control floods. This helps prevent too much water from causing problems during heavy rains.
Finally, the South Branch meets up with the West Branch Souhegan River. When these two branches join together, they form the main Souhegan River. This meeting point is just north of a spot known as "Gibson Four Corners."
