Cimmaron River

Cimmaron River is a beautiful, 461 mile-long waterway that passes throughout the states of New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas. The river provides a water source for agricultural, industrial, and residential needs for the people around it. Its significance in American history also add to its importance.

Uses in History and Today

Native Americans took advantage of the western land in America that had not been urbanized in the earlier years of the country. They made use out of the Cimarron’s natural resources, as well as using it for transportation. Spiritual practices also took place surrounding the river. Once settlers discovered the river, they relied on it majorly for transportation during westward expansion. Additionally, they were able to maintain crops extremely well as they had easy access to water. Found alongside the river was coal and oil deposits, which spiked the economy and competition for multiple businesses. Throughout the Civil War,, Cimmaron River was also used as a supply line by both the Union and Confederacy.

Today, Cimmaron River and the area surrounding it houses several species of plants and animals. This includes fish and waterfowl, bison, elk, and more. Riverine forests, wetlands, and grasslands all play a very important role in the area’s ecosystem.

Benefits to the Community

As if supporting the life and economy that surrounds it was not enough, Cimmaron River is also provides hydroelectric power. Power plants have been placed alongside the river provide renewable energy to the community instead of using materials such as coal and gas.

Floods are often a major threat to communities in areas that face heavy rainfall. Luckily, Cimmaron River protects the neighboring lands by channeling extra water, thus reducing the risk of floods.

Geography

The Cimmaron River begins in the high plains of New Mexico, flowing through Oklahoma and Kansas, finally meeting the Arkansas River in Oklahoma. With a length of about 451 miles, the Cimmaron River covering a watershed area of over 25,500 sq. miles.

There is also a low level of pollution within the water and high clarity, ensuring a beautiful sight to anyone who encounters it.

Recreational Opportunities

Cimmaron River attracts many visitors solely because of its beauty, but it also offers a range of activities. Fishing, boating, and swimming are all popular activities that take place in the river. Hiking is also offered on the higher regions surrounding it, which is a great way to encounter numerous forms of wildlife.

Fishers are pleased with the large variety of fish that live within the river, including catfish, bass, and sunfish. Canoes, kayaks, and rafts are all allowed in the river. Many find it fun and relaxing to explore the contents of the river in such an enjoyable way.

Not only is hiking one way to make use of the river’s surroundings, but camping is also popular as well. Campsites have been placed along the river, providing visitors with a very peaceful view to wake up to.

Though these are some of the more well-known activities that are provided by the Cimmaron, stargazing is often overlooked. With the river being located away from city lights and large crowds, the dark skies ensure an amazing view of the sky. Astrophotography is able to come easily to astronomers that stargaze in this area, as their view of celestial objects is clearer than ever.

Conservation and Protection

Though there are multiple efforts in protecting the Cimmaron River, the river still faces some threats. Habit degradation, invasive species, and occasionally pollution make it difficult for the river to maintain its health and clarity. Climate change and global warming are changing the precipitation patterns in the area, leading to changes to the river and ecosystems around it.

Supporting conservation efforts, respecting nature while visiting, and spreading awareness are all ways you can take action.

Preserving Beauty

The Cimmaron River has been important to centuries of generations, and anyone who has witnessed it can only hope that it can be seen by the eyes of future populations. Unique plants and animals as well as the communities around it all rely on the river for its natural resources. The beauty of this natural waterway only adds to their love of the Cimmaron River.