Which river empties into the Delaware Bay?
The Delaware Bay is an estuary located along the east coast of the United States and is fed by several rivers. However, many people may not be aware of which river empties into the Delaware Bay. In this article, we will explore the major rivers that contribute to the Delaware Bay, their significance, and their unique features.
The Delaware Bay: A Brief Overview
The Delaware Bay is a large estuary that stretches over 782 square miles and is located between Delaware to the north and New Jersey to the south. It is connected to the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow channel known as the Delaware Capes. The bay is an essential ecosystem that supports numerous species of fish, birds, and other wildlife, making it an essential area for conservation efforts. The bay’s unique geography makes it a perfect breeding ground for horseshoe crabs and a critical migration stop for shorebirds.
The Delaware River: Major Contributor to the Bay
The Delaware River is the primary contributor to the Delaware Bay, stretching over 330 miles and flowing through four states: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. It is the longest undammed river east of the Mississippi River and is home to numerous species of fish, including striped bass and shad. The river’s watershed encompasses over 13,000 square miles, making it a significant source of freshwater for the region. The Delaware River is also a critical transportation route, with several ports located along its banks.
The Schuylkill River: A Significant Tributary
The Schuylkill River is a significant tributary of the Delaware River, flowing over 135 miles and passing through Pennsylvania’s major cities, including Philadelphia and Reading. The river has its source in the Appalachian Mountains and provides numerous recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. The Schuylkill River is also home to several species of fish, including smallmouth bass and chain pickerel, and is a critical source of drinking water for the region.
The Christina River: A Lesser-Known Contributor
Although lesser-known, the Christina River is also a significant contributor to the Delaware Bay, flowing over 35 miles and passing through Wilmington, Delaware. The river is fed by several small tributaries and is home to various species of fish, including largemouth bass and catfish. The Christina River is also the site of several historic landmarks, including Fort Christina Park, which commemorates the first Swedish settlement in North America.
The Appoquinimink River: A Smaller yet Important River
The Appoquinimink River is a smaller river that flows over 23 miles and passes through rural areas of Delaware before reaching the Delaware Bay. The river is home to several species of fish, including striped bass and white perch, and provides numerous recreational opportunities, including fishing and boating. The Appoquinimink River is also a critical source of freshwater for the region and provides habitat for several species of wildlife.
The Mispillion River: A Coastal Waterway
The Mispillion River is a coastal waterway located in Southern Delaware, flowing over 23 miles and passing through several small towns. The river is home to several species of fish, including bluefish and flounder, and provides numerous recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and kayaking. The Mispillion River is also the site of several historic landmarks, including the Mispillion Lighthouse, which was built in 1872.
The kill River: A Unique Name and History
The kill River has a unique name and history, flowing over 26 miles and passing through rural areas of Delaware before reaching the Delaware Bay. The river is home to several species of fish, including striped bass and catfish, and provides numerous recreational opportunities, including fishing and boating. The kill River’s name has a dark history, as it is named after a battle that occurred between the Dutch and Native Americans in the 17th century.
The St. Jones River: A Key Feature of Delaware’s Coast
The St. Jones River is a key feature of Delaware’s coast, flowing over 12 miles and passing through Dover, Delaware. The river is home to several species of fish, including largemouth bass and catfish, and provides numerous recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and kayaking. The St. Jones River is also a critical source of freshwater for the region and provides habitat for several species of wildlife.
The Broadkill River: A Popular Fishing Spot
The Broadkill River is a popular fishing spot, flowing over 9 miles and passing through Milton, Delaware. The river is home to several species of fish, including striped bass and perch, and provides numerous recreational opportunities, including fishing and boating. The Broadkill River is also a critical source of freshwater for the region and provides habitat for several species of wildlife.
The Pocomoke River: A Border River
The Pocomoke River is a border river, flowing over 66 miles and passing through Maryland and Virginia before emptying into the Delaware Bay. The river is home to several species of fish, including largemouth bass and crappie, and provides numerous recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and kayaking. The Pocomoke River is also a critical source of freshwater for the region and provides habitat for several species of wildlife.
Conclusion: The Importance of Rivers to the Delaware Bay
In conclusion, the Delaware Bay is fed by several rivers, each with its unique features and significance. These rivers provide critical habitat for various species of fish and wildlife, contribute to the region’s freshwater supply, and offer numerous recreational opportunities. It is crucial to protect and conserve these rivers to ensure the continued health and sustainability of the Delaware Bay ecosystem.
