Tanner's Brook facts for kids
Tanner's Brook is a small river, about 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) long, located in Hampshire, England. It begins in a place called North Baddesley and flows all the way to Southampton Water. The river gets its name from a "tannery" that used to be nearby in the 1800s. A tannery was a factory where animal hides (skins) were turned into leather.
Contents
What is Tanner's Brook?
Tanner's Brook is a natural waterway that plays an important role in the local environment. It helps drain water from the land and provides a home for various plants and animals. Rivers like Tanner's Brook are vital parts of our planet's water cycle.
Where Does Tanner's Brook Start and End?
Tanner's Brook begins its journey in the village of North Baddesley. From there, it flows southwards, passing through different areas. Its journey ends when it reaches Southampton Water, which is a large tidal estuary leading to the sea.
What Other Streams Join Tanner's Brook?
One of the most important streams that joins Tanner's Brook is called Hollybrook. This stream is actually the longest "tributary" of Tanner's Brook. A tributary is a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one. Hollybrook joins Tanner's Brook in an area known as Shirley.
Flowing Through Green Spaces
Before these two streams meet, both Tanner's Brook and Hollybrook flow through parts of a green area called Lordsdale Greenway. This greenway is a lovely natural space for people and wildlife.
The Name of Millbrook
Tanner's Brook also flows through the area of Millbrook. It is very likely that the river gave Millbrook its name! Rivers often played a big part in naming towns and villages in the past.
How Has the Brook Changed Over Time?
Parts of Tanner's Brook have changed over the years due to human activity. For example, a small section of the river in Millbrook was covered up during the building of the Salisbury and Southampton Canal. This was done to allow the canal to pass over or near the brook.
Flood Protection
Later, in 1964, this covered section was filled with concrete. This work was part of a "flood relief project." Flood relief projects are designed to help prevent areas from flooding during heavy rains.
Joining Other Waterways
Originally, Tanner's Brook used to meet another stream called Wimpson Stream on the muddy areas of Southampton Water. However, as the docks in Southampton grew bigger, these muddy areas were filled in. Now, Wimpson Stream joins Tanner's Brook before it reaches Southampton Water. This shows how human development can change natural landscapes.