Penobscot River Quiz
Explore Maine’s second-longest river, its vast basin, and critical ecological features (10 questions).
Penobscot River Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Penobscot River is a cornerstone of Maine’s natural heritage, flowing through the heart of the state to the Atlantic Ocean. This quiz and study guide delve into its geographical significance, the extensive basin it drains, and the remarkable ecological restoration efforts that have brought migratory fish back to its waters.
Key Aspects of the Penobscot River
Key Takeaways
- The Penobscot River is the second-longest river in Maine, flowing approximately 109 miles from its source to the Atlantic Ocean.
- Its vast drainage basin covers about 8,500 square miles, making it the largest river system entirely within Maine.
- The river is ecologically vital, historically supporting significant populations of migratory fish, notably the endangered Atlantic salmon.
- The Penobscot River Restoration Project, completed in 2016, involved the removal of two dams and bypass construction at a third to open up over 2,000 miles of habitat for eleven species of sea-run fish.
- Major tributaries include the East Branch and West Branch Penobscot River, forming a complex watershed.
- The city of Bangor is a prominent urban center located along the lower reaches of the Penobscot River.
- Historically, the river played a crucial role in Maine’s logging industry, with numerous dams built for log driving and later hydropower generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Penobscot River known for?
The Penobscot River is renowned for being Maine’s second-longest river, its vast drainage basin, and its pioneering ecological restoration project which removed dams to restore migratory fish populations, especially Atlantic salmon.
Where is the Penobscot River located?
The Penobscot River is located entirely within the state of Maine, United States. It originates from several branches in the state’s interior and flows generally southward, discharging into the Gulf of Maine (part of the Atlantic Ocean).
What was the Penobscot River Restoration Project?
The Penobscot River Restoration Project was a landmark conservation effort completed in 2016 that involved the removal of the Veazie and Great Works dams and the construction of a bypass around the Howland Dam. Its primary goal was to restore access to over 2,000 miles of spawning and rearing habitat for eleven species of sea-run fish, including Atlantic salmon.
What kind of wildlife lives in the Penobscot River basin?
The Penobscot River basin supports diverse wildlife, including various fish species (such as Atlantic salmon, alewives, shad, and trout), numerous bird species (including bald eagles and ospreys), and mammals like moose, black bears, deer, and beavers.
How long is the Penobscot River?
The main stem of the Penobscot River is approximately 109 miles (175 km) long. However, when considering its longest branch (the West Branch), the total length of the river system extends to about 350 miles (563 km).
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