West Branch Feather River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids West Branch Feather River |
|
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| Region | North Fork Feather Watershed |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Lassen National Forest Butte County |
| River mouth | Lake Oroville, West ArmA |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 282 sq mi (730 km2) |
| APrior to Oroville Dam construction, the West Branch flowed to its confluence with the North Fork Feather River. | |
The West Branch Feather River is a river in California, United States. It is also sometimes called the West Fork Feather River. This river flows into Lake Oroville, which is a large reservoir.
The West Branch Feather River generally flows from north to south. It is an important part of the North Fork Feather Watershed. A watershed is an area of land where all the water drains into a single river or lake.
Contents
River Journey: From Source to Lake Oroville
The West Branch Feather River starts its journey high up in the mountains. Its source is located in the beautiful Lassen National Forest in Butte County.
Key Points Along the River
As the river flows, it passes through several interesting places:
- It flows through a waterbody called Snag Lake.
- The river travels through a valley known as Coon Hollow.
- It meets other smaller streams, like Philbrook Creek and Fish Creek.
- The river also flows past the border of Lassen National Forest.
- Further downstream, it joins with Last Chance Creek.
- Other creeks that flow into the West Branch include Big Kimshew Creek, the Little West Fork, and Concow Creek.
Where the River Ends
The West Branch Feather River eventually reaches its mouth, which is where it flows into Lake Oroville. Specifically, it enters the West Arm of Lake Oroville. Before the Oroville Dam was built, the West Branch used to flow directly into the North Fork Feather River.
Water Use and Diversion
Some of the water from the West Branch Feather River is taken out, or "diverted," for other uses. This is done through a system of canals and dams.
How Water is Diverted
A significant amount of water from the West Branch is sent into the Hendricks Canal. This canal is about 8.66 miles (13.94 kilometers) long. The water from the river helps to create electricity.
The water then travels through a series of facilities. For example, the Magalia 73 Dam helps move water through different canals and reservoirs. This water eventually reaches powerhouses, like the Coal Canyon Powerhouse. These powerhouses use the force of the water to generate electricity for homes and businesses. The water then continues to the Oroville-Thermalito Complex, which is a large system of dams and power plants.
