The term 'OFTEN-DRY CREEK' is a combination of two words, 'OFTEN' and 'dry creek, ' which can be used to describe an ARROYO, a type of waterway found in the southwestern United States. An ARROYO is a dry creek bed that is usually filled with water only during times of heavy rain or flooding. During dry periods, the ARROYO may appear as a shallow depression in the landscape. Arroyos are OFTEN used by wildlife for shelter and food, and they provide important habitat for many species.