Steamboat Creek (Nevada) facts for kids
Steamboat Creek is a waterway in Nevada that starts by draining Washoe Lake. It flows north and northeast through an area called Truckee Meadows. Eventually, it joins the Truckee River east of Reno, Nevada.
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What is Steamboat Creek?
Steamboat Creek is a natural stream that carries water from Washoe Lake to the Truckee River. Another nearby area, Steamboat Springs, also sends its water into Steamboat Creek. Long ago, in the 1860s, there were mines and mills near the creek, like the Castle Peak mine.
A Look Back: Mining and Mercury
In the late 1800s, people used a special liquid metal called mercury (Hg) in mills around the Washoe Lake area. They used mercury to separate valuable metals like gold and silver from the rocks they dug up from the Comstock Lode deposit.
Because of this mining activity, mercury ended up in the water. It has been found in Washoe Lake, in Steamboat Creek, and even in the Truckee River. Even today, Steamboat Creek still carries some mercury into the Truckee River.
Why is Mercury a Problem?
Scientists have studied the amount of mercury in the mud and dirt along Steamboat Creek. They found that mercury is spread out along the entire length of the creek. This means that the mercury pollution is not just in one spot.
When mercury gets into water, it can change into a more harmful form called methylmercury. This type of mercury can be dangerous for plants, animals, and even people if they are exposed to too much of it. Areas along Steamboat Creek, including ponds and wetlands, still show a high chance of having mercury.
Where Does the Creek Go?
Steamboat Creek flows past the new Reno Fire House. It then continues into the marshy areas that are now part of the Demonte Ranch Development.
