Big Bureau Creek
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The Big Bureau Creek is a rivulet that runs from approximately 4 miles south of Mendota, Illinois to Goose Lake through Bureau County.[citation needed] Among the creek's more notable features is the Red Covered Bridge, built in 1863 which passes over Big Bureau Creek and was once part of the Peoria Galena Trail. The bridge, located just north of Interstate 80 is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.[1]
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[edit] Description
Currently, there is an effort underway to maintain this watershed as well to evaluate its current condition with the Big Bureau Creek Watershed Inventory and Evaluation (I&E) begun in 2003. Because of its vitality to surrounding lakes, the Illinois River, and of course the Mississippi River, a small group of environmentalists are highly concerned.[citation needed] Nitrogen levels from surrounding farmland, sedimentation, and low water levels are the main problems to be assessed.
[edit] History
The origins of the creek's name are uncertain. Among possible origins, two are often given locally. The first suggests that the name derives from the name of a Native American chief who according to local folklore lived near the creek with his tribe. The second suggests that a US military officer, Captain Robinson, mistakenly paddled up the creek with his men sometime in the early 1800s. Robinson is said to have named the creek Bureau after Pierre de Beuro, a Frenchman who had already established a trading post near the mouth. The Native American chief's name, Bureau, could possibly be a variation of Pierre de Beuro.[citation needed]
[edit] Recreation
Most land surrounding the banks of the Big Bureau Creek is privately owned. Canoeing on the creek is possible in some areas. There have been reports of class II and III rapids in high water. Brush buildup, beaver dams, and submerged rocks are always a point of concern.[citation needed]
Fish populations in Big Bureau Creek are stable with reports of 3-4 lbs. Smallmouth bass and 10-20 lbs. Channel catfish caught by fishermen on the stream.[citation needed]
[edit] References
- ^ National Register Information System, National Register of Historic Places, National Park Service. Retrieved 11 March 2008.
