Don River is an important waterway that is located in southwestern Russia. The Don rises from a small lake near Tula. It flows south for 1,220 miles (1,963 kilometers) and empties into the Sea of Azov. Large ships can sail on the Don for about 800 miles (1,300 kilometers). A canal connects the Don and Volga rivers. The northern part of the Don River flows through wooded, swampy land. But most of the river course is through rich farmlands. The river carries shipments of cement, grain, cattle, and lumber. The Don also has valuable fish, especially sturgeon. The city of Rostov is near the mouth of the Don. The chief branch of the Don is the Donets.
