Bear River (UT/ID/WY) Quiz
Basin loop, Great Salt Lake role, tributaries (10 questions).
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Bear River (UT/ID/WY) Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Bear River is a remarkable hydrological feature, tracing a distinctive U-shaped “basin loop” across three U.S. states. As the largest tributary to the terminal Great Salt Lake, its waters are crucial for both the region’s ecology and its agricultural economy. This section provides a brief overview of its unique course, its vital role, and its contributing waterways.
Key Concepts
The Bear River’s unique course includes a U-shaped loop, flowing north into Idaho and Wyoming before turning back south into Utah.
It is the largest freshwater inflow to the Great Salt Lake, a terminal, endorheic lake with no outlet to the ocean.
Significant tributaries like the Malad River (Idaho) and Little Bear River and Blacksmith Fork (Utah) contribute to its flow.
Its waters support vast wetlands, including the critical Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, vital for North American birds.
Key Takeaways
- The Bear River is the longest river in North America that does not flow into an ocean.
- It originates in the Uinta Mountains of Utah.
- Its unique course takes it through Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming in a distinctive U-shaped “basin loop.”
- It is the primary source of freshwater for the Great Salt Lake.
- The Great Salt Lake is an endorheic lake, meaning it has no outflow to the sea.
- A substantial amount of Bear River water is diverted for agricultural irrigation.
- The river’s lower course and delta create critical wetland habitats, notably the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Bear River originate and flow?
The Bear River originates in the Uinta Mountains in northeastern Utah and flows north into southeastern Idaho, then briefly into southwestern Wyoming, before turning south and emptying into the Great Salt Lake in Utah.
What is unique about the Bear River’s course?
Its most unique feature is its extensive U-shaped “basin loop.” It is also notable as the longest river in North America that does not eventually flow into an ocean, instead terminating in the Great Salt Lake.
How is the Bear River important to the Great Salt Lake?
The Bear River is the largest tributary to the Great Salt Lake, supplying the majority of its freshwater inflow. This input is crucial for maintaining the lake’s volume and ecosystem, especially given its status as an endorheic (terminal) lake.
What are some major tributaries of the Bear River?
Key tributaries include the Malad River in Idaho, and the Little Bear River and Blacksmith Fork in Utah. These rivers significantly contribute to the Bear River’s flow along its long and winding path.
Why is the Bear River ecologically significant?
The Bear River is ecologically significant due to the vast wetlands and marshlands it creates, particularly near its delta at the Great Salt Lake. This area, including the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, provides vital habitat for millions of migratory birds.
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