Spring Creek (Minnesota) facts for kids
Spring Creek is a small river located in southwestern Minnesota. It is like a starting point, or a "headwater," for the Yellow Medicine River. The Yellow Medicine River then flows into the larger Minnesota River. The creek gets its name because some of its water comes from natural springs that bubble up from the ground.
These springs can make the ice on the creek thinner and weaker in winter, especially right above and below where the springs are. So, it's important to be careful! Spring Creek usually flows for about 33.4 miles (53.8 km) all year round. When there's more water, like after heavy rains or snowmelt, it can stretch up to 46 miles (74 km) long. The entire creek stays within Yellow Medicine County.
In the very cold Minnesota winters, the shallow parts of the creek can freeze completely. This can lead to a "fish kill," meaning many fish might not survive. Over time, things like pollution or changes in the environment have made it harder for certain types of fish, like "game fish" (fish people like to catch for sport), to live here.
Years ago, you could often find big Northern Pike and other fish that hunt smaller fish in Spring Creek. Today, the fish you're most likely to catch are bullheads and carp. The creek is lined with grasses and trees along most of its path. This provides a home for many different kinds of animals. Because there are so many trees, some have fallen into the water. This can make it very hard or even impossible to paddle a canoe along the creek. Beavers also love the trees and have built several dams in the creek.
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What Lives in Spring Creek?
Spring Creek is home to various types of fish and other wildlife. While some fish are less common now, others thrive in its waters.
Fish You Might Find
- Bullhead: These are common fish, known for their whisker-like barbels around their mouths.
- Carp: A hardy fish that can live in many different water conditions.
- Northern Pike: These are predatory fish, known for being good hunters. They used to be more common here.
- Smallmouth bass: Another type of sport fish that can be found in the creek.
- Other "rough fish": This term often refers to fish that are not usually caught for sport, but they are still an important part of the creek's ecosystem.
Other Wildlife and Plants
The trees and grasses along Spring Creek create a perfect home for many animals. You might see different kinds of birds, small mammals, and insects that depend on the creek for water and food. The Beavers are a great example, using the trees to build their dams and homes right in the water.
Safety on Spring Creek
It's important to be safe when you are near Spring Creek, especially in winter.
Thin Ice Warning
Because of the natural springs that feed the creek, the ice can be thinner in some spots, even when the rest of the creek seems frozen solid. This is especially true right where the springs bubble up and a little bit downstream. Always be very careful and check ice thickness before walking or playing on it during winter.
If you ever think about canoeing or kayaking on Spring Creek, be aware that fallen trees and beaver dams can block your path. These natural obstacles can make it very difficult or even impossible to travel by boat along certain parts of the creek.
