Moshassuck River

Moshassuck River
Analogdemon at English Wikipedia · Public domain · source
Name	Moshassuck River
Basin countries	United States

Moshassuck River. The Moshassuck River is a significant waterway located in Rhode Island, flowing through several cities, including Providence and Lincoln. It is a tributary of the Seekonk River, which in turn empties into Narragansett Bay. The river's watershed covers a substantial area, encompassing parts of North Providence, Johnston, and Central Falls.

Geography

The Moshassuck River's geography is characterized by its location in the New England region, where it flows through a mix of urban and rural landscapes. The river's watershed is bordered by the Blackstone River to the north and the Woonasquatucket River to the south. The Moshassuck River's terrain is influenced by the Glacial features that shaped the region during the last Ice Age, with notable examples including Diamond Hill and Pocasset Hill. The river's proximity to major cities like Providence and Pawtucket has led to the development of various infrastructure projects, such as the Providence River Greenway and the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park.

Course

The Moshassuck River's course begins in the town of Johnston, where it flows through the Johnston Town Forest and the Scituate Reservoir watershed. The river then passes through the city of Lincoln, where it flows alongside the Lincoln Woods State Park and the Great Road. As it approaches Providence, the river flows through the Providence River Parkway and empties into the Seekonk River, which in turn flows into Narragansett Bay. Notable landmarks along the river's course include the Slater Mill Historic District, the Pawtucket Falls, and the Providence Place Mall.

History

The Moshassuck River has a rich history, with evidence of human presence dating back to the Native American tribes that inhabited the region, including the Narragansett and the Wampanoag. The river played a significant role in the development of the Industrial Revolution in the region, with the construction of textile mills and other industrial facilities along its banks, such as the Slater Mill and the Pawtucket Mill. The river's history is also closely tied to the development of the Canal Street district in Providence, which features notable landmarks like the Providence Performing Arts Center and the Trinity Repertory Company.

Ecology

The Moshassuck River's ecology is characterized by its diverse range of plant and animal species, including the American eel, the Blueback herring, and the Alewife. The river's watershed is home to several notable ecosystems, including the Narragansett Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and the Johnston Town Forest. Efforts to protect and restore the river's ecology have been led by organizations such as the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, the Narragansett Bay Commission, and the Save The Bay organization. Notable initiatives include the Clean Water Act and the Rhode Island Water Pollution Control Act.

Recreation

The Moshassuck River offers a range of recreational activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The river's proximity to major cities like Providence and Pawtucket makes it an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with notable access points including the Providence River Greenway and the Lincoln Woods State Park. The river is also home to several annual events, including the Providence River Festival and the Pawtucket Arts Festival. Organizations such as the Rhode Island Parks and Recreation Association and the Providence Parks Department work to promote and maintain the river's recreational resources, including the Roger Williams Park and the Waterplace Park. Category:Rivers of Rhode Island