Babcock Lakes facts for kids

The Babcock Lakes were a group of ponds once found near the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C.. This area later became part of the famous National Mall.

In 1878, these lakes became special fish farms. The United States Fish Commission used them to help more fish grow. Their goal was to increase the number of fish available for people to buy and eat across America.

The Role of Babcock Lakes in Fish Farming

The Babcock Lakes played a very important part in bringing a fish called carp to the United States. Carp are a type of freshwater fish.

Spreading Carp Across the Americas

From these lakes, millions of carp were sent out. By 1896, about 2.4 million carp had been distributed. These fish helped restock rivers and lakes in both North and South America.

What Happened to the Lakes?

By 1911, the Babcock Lakes were no longer there. They were covered over with land. This land came from the Potomac River as part of a big project. This project expanded West Potomac Park, creating more land for parks and monuments.