Stirrup Iron Creek facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stirrup Iron Creek |
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Location of Stirrup Iron Creek mouth
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| Other name(s) | Tributary to Crabtree Creek |
| Country | United States |
| State | North Carolina |
| County | Wake Durham |
| City | Cary |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | divide between Stirrup Iron Creek and Northeast Creek pond by Brassfield, North Carolina 400 ft (120 m) 35°56′01″N 078°50′40″W / 35.93361°N 78.84444°W |
| River mouth | Crabtree Creek Lake Crabtree 272 ft (83 m) 35°50′15″N 078°47′50″W / 35.83750°N 78.79722°W |
| Length | 9.12 mi (14.68 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | south-southeast |
| River system | Neuse River |
| Basin size | 26.05 square miles (67.5 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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| Waterbodies | Lake Crabtree |
Stirrup Iron Creek is a small but important stream located in North Carolina, United States. It flows through parts of Wake and Durham counties, including near the town of Cary. This creek is a "tributary," which means it's a smaller stream that flows into a larger one. Stirrup Iron Creek eventually joins Crabtree Creek, and its waters eventually reach the Neuse River.
Contents
What is Stirrup Iron Creek?
Stirrup Iron Creek is a natural waterway that plays a role in the local environment. It's about 9.12 mi (14.68 km) long, which is roughly the distance you might walk or bike in a couple of hours. The creek's journey starts in one place and ends in another, contributing water to a larger river system.
Where Does It Flow?
The creek begins its journey near a place called Brassfield, North Carolina. This starting point is about 400 ft (120 m) above sea level. From there, it flows generally south-southeast, moving downhill towards its final destination.
Its journey ends when it flows into Crabtree Creek. This meeting point is at Lake Crabtree, a popular spot in the area. At this point, the creek is about 272 ft (83 m) above sea level.
The Water It Carries
Stirrup Iron Creek carries a certain amount of water, which is called its "discharge." On average, it discharges about 27.35 cu ft/s (0.774 m3/s) of water where it meets Crabtree Creek. This might sound like a lot, but it's a steady flow that helps keep the larger river system healthy.
The area of land that drains water into Stirrup Iron Creek is called its "watershed" or "basin." For this creek, the watershed covers about 26.05 square miles (67.5 km2). About 31% of this land is covered by forests, which helps keep the water clean.
Why Are Creeks Important?
Creeks like Stirrup Iron Creek are very important for many reasons. They are natural pathways for water, moving it from higher ground to lower areas and eventually to larger rivers and oceans. They also help control flooding by carrying away excess rainwater.
Home for Wildlife
Creeks provide a home for many different plants and animals. Fish, insects, frogs, and birds all rely on the water and the plants along the creek banks. The trees and plants near the creek also help keep the water cool and clean, which is good for all the creatures living there.
Fun Activities
While Stirrup Iron Creek itself might be small, its connection to Lake Crabtree means it's part of an area where people can enjoy nature. Lake Crabtree is a popular place for activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. The health of Stirrup Iron Creek contributes to the overall health of the lake.
