Waterfalls

The calming sound of the rushing water. The smell of dirt, freshwater, and leaves. The feeling of the misty air. Waterfalls are special, useful resources found in the environment. The unique benefits have effects on us and Mother Nature. 

So what is a waterfall? “A cascade of water falling from a height, formed when a river or stream flows over a precipice or steep incline.” Waterfalls are typically formed when a river flows over rocks. When the rocks erode (through the process of erosion, the wearing away of earth), this leads to the creation of a waterfall.

Now that you’ve got the basics of waterfalls, let’s look at some of their benefits: 

• Provides therapeutic sights and soothing sounds that help you relax- they can play a role in improving your physical and mental health by lowering blood pressure
• Waterfalls mean a healthy life for the river they are connected to
• Leads to the growth of trees and plants
• Reduces soil erosion- this is due to the stability of the soil where plants grow
• Helps the irrigation of crops nearby as waterfalls provide a great water supply
• Purifies the water
• Turns waste in the running water into nutrients that assist in plant growth
• Produces a resourceful home to many animals, insects, and other living organisms. (such as frogs, birds, turtles, and more)

Fun Fact: “The roar from Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is so loud that it can be heard from 25 miles away”