Little Muddy River (North Dakota)

The Little Muddy River is a tributary of the Missouri River, located in northwestern North Dakota, United States. It flows generally eastward for approximately 60 miles (97 km) through McKenzie County, draining a primarily agricultural area. The river's source is located in the rolling prairie of the Missouri Plateau. It joins the Missouri River within the Lake Sakakawea reservoir, a large impoundment created by the Garrison Dam. The river's name is descriptive of its character; it typically carries a high sediment load, especially during periods of snowmelt and heavy rainfall, resulting in a muddy appearance. Its watershed is relatively small and sparsely populated. The river is not generally used for commercial navigation or large-scale irrigation.