Calamus Creek (Minnesota)

Calamus Creek is a small stream located in southeastern Minnesota, primarily within Mower County. It is a tributary of the Cedar River, which is part of the larger Mississippi River watershed. The creek's course flows generally southward through agricultural land.

The name "Calamus" refers to a type of wetland plant, specifically Acorus calamus, also known as Sweet Flag. This plant is often found in marshy areas and along the banks of streams and rivers. It's likely that the creek was named for the prevalence of this plant along its course.

Calamus Creek is primarily used for agricultural drainage, impacting its natural flow and water quality. Runoff from surrounding farmland contributes to nutrient loading and sedimentation in the creek. Efforts to improve water quality in the Cedar River watershed, of which Calamus Creek is a part, often involve best management practices for agriculture, such as buffer strips and reduced tillage.

While the creek itself may not be a major recreational destination, it contributes to the overall health of the Cedar River and the broader Mississippi River ecosystem. Preservation of the creek's riparian areas and water quality is important for maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services within the region. The specific fish and wildlife populations supported by Calamus Creek are dependent on habitat conditions and water quality. Further research and monitoring would be needed to fully document the ecological characteristics of this waterway.