Upper Iowa River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Upper Iowa River |
|
|---|---|
Mouth of the Upper Iowa at floodstage, January 18, 2001, looking approximately west
|
|
Catchment of the Upper Iowa River (EPA)
|
|
| Other name(s) | Oneota River |
| Country | United States |
| State | Iowa |
| District | Allamakee County, Iowa, Winneshiek County, Iowa, Howard County, Iowa, Fillmore County, Minnesota, Mower County, Minnesota |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 43°37′16″N 92°37′23″W / 43.621°N 92.623°W |
| River mouth | Mississippi River 620 ft (190 m) 43°27′58″N 91°14′02″W / 43.466°N 91.234°W |
| Length | 156 mi (251 km) |
| Width |
|
The Upper Iowa River is a 156-mile-long river in the United States. It flows through parts of southeastern Minnesota and northeastern Iowa. This river is special because it eventually joins the mighty Mississippi River.
Contents
The Upper Iowa River's Journey
The Upper Iowa River begins in southeastern Minnesota. It starts in Mower County, Minnesota, close to the Iowa border. From there, it flows southeast into Iowa.
Cities Along the River
As the river travels, it passes through several Iowa counties. These include Howard County, Iowa, Winneshiek County, Iowa, and Allamakee County, Iowa. It also flows past cities like Chester, Iowa, Lime Springs, Iowa, and Decorah, Iowa.
River Size and Area
The Upper Iowa River is about 156 miles (251 kilometers) long. The area of land that drains into the river is called its watershed. This watershed covers nearly 641,000 acres (2,594 square kilometers).
A Unique Landscape: The Driftless Area
The Upper Iowa River and its smaller streams are part of a special region. This area is known as the Driftless Area of Iowa. It's unique because it was not covered by ice during the last ice age.
How the Driftless Area Formed
Most of the land around it was flattened by glaciers. But the Driftless Area was left untouched. This means it has steep, high-walled canyons. These look very different from other rivers in Iowa.
A Wild and Scenic River?
Because it has not been changed much by people, the Upper Iowa River is very natural. It is the only river in Iowa that could become a "National Wild and Scenic River." This special title helps protect rivers. However, much of the land along the river is privately owned.
Fun on the River
The Upper Iowa River is a great place for outdoor activities. Many people enjoy canoeing here. Paddlers can float through beautiful areas with tall bluffs.
Popular Canoeing Spots
Many people start their canoe trips at Kendallville. Others prefer to begin at Lime Springs or Florenceville. The river offers a scenic journey for everyone.
Wildlife and Nature
The river basin is home to many wildlife refuges and preserves. These areas protect different kinds of animals and plants.
Birds You Might See
If you visit the river, you might spot some amazing birds. Common sightings include bald eagles, with their impressive white heads. You might also see great blue herons wading in the water. Turkey vultures often soar overhead, and barn swallows dart through the air.
Protecting the River
In 2007, a group called the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation bought more land along the river. This land is being restored to help the river stay healthy. They are removing plants that don't belong there and planting native species. This helps protect the river for the future.
River's Names Through History
The Upper Iowa River has had a few different names. Sometimes, people called it simply the "Iowa River." This caused confusion with a larger river to the south.
The Oneota Connection
It was also known as the "Oneota River." Many ancient sites of the Oneota culture were found along its bluffs. Because of this, an early archaeologist named the Oneota Culture after this very river.
