A moving part of the water cycle
A creek is flowing surface water contained by a channel, bed, and banks. Its flow can come from rain, springs, shallow groundwater, and runoff. Some creeks run year-round; others rise and fall with wet and dry seasons.
Size does not determine importance. Small headwater streams collect water from the landscape and feed larger streams, rivers, lakes, and coastal waters.
What a healthy creek does
- Moves water through the landscape.
- Creates habitat for fish, amphibians, insects, birds, and mammals.
- Connects fragmented habitat so wildlife can move.
- Supports groundwater exchange and local moisture.
- Provides recreation, beauty, and a record of local land use.
Look beyond the water. The channel, streambank, tree canopy, roots, leaf litter, rocks, and woody debris all contribute to creek health.
What can damage a creek
Litter is visible, but sediment, excess nutrients, oils, pesticides, road salt, heat, and altered stormwater flow can be just as damaging. A creek often reflects everything happening on the land around it.