Yaqui River facts for kids
The Yaqui River (called Río Yaqui in Spanish and Hiak Vatwe in the Yaqui language) is a major river located in the state of Sonora in northwest Mexico. It is the biggest river system in Sonora. The Yaqui River is very important for irrigation, which means it provides water for farms.
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Where Does the Yaqui River Flow?
The Yaqui River is about 320 kilometers (200 miles) long. It begins high up in the Sierra Madre Occidental mountains. From there, it flows south and then southwest. Finally, it empties into the Gulf of California near the port city of Guaymas.
Why is the Yaqui River Important?
The Yaqui River is super important for the people and farms in Sonora. Its main job is to supply water for irrigation. This water helps grow many crops in the region.
Water for Farms: The Reservoirs
To make sure there's enough water all year round, several large reservoirs have been built along the river. These are like giant lakes that store water. Some of the most important reservoirs are:
- Plutarco Elías Calles (also known as El Novillo)
- Lázaro Cárdenas (also known as Angostura)
- Álvaro Obregón (also known as El Oviáchic or Lake Ouiachic)
These reservoirs provide water for the large farming area around Ciudad Obregón. This city is a big center for agriculture in Mexico, all thanks to the water from the Yaqui River.
The Yaqui People and Their River
The river is named after the Yaqui people, who are an indigenous group from this region. The river has always been central to their history, culture, and way of life. For centuries, the Yaqui people have lived along its banks, relying on its waters for their communities and farming.
See also
- In Spanish: Río Yaqui para niños
