Ballysaggart Lough facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ballysaggart LoughBlack Lough Loch Bhaile an tSagairt Loch Dhubh |
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 Location in Northern Ireland
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| Location | Dungannon, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland |
| Coordinates | 54°29′40″N 6°46′40″W / 54.49444°N 6.77778°W |
| Basin countries | United Kingdom |
Ballysaggart Lough, also called Black Lough, is a lovely lake in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. It is found near the town of Dungannon. This lake is part of the water system that flows into the River Blackwater. The river then flows into Lough Neagh, a much larger lake.
Ballysaggart Lough was once important for local industries. Its waters helped power mills in the nearby village of Moygashel. The lake covers an area of about 42.5 acres (17.2 hectares). Since 2014, the Mid Ulster District Council has owned the lough. They are working to make it easier for people to visit and enjoy this natural spot.
Discovering Ballysaggart Lough
Ballysaggart Lough is a quiet and important place for nature. It is a great spot to learn about local wildlife. The lake is looked after by the local council. They want to make sure everyone can enjoy its beauty.
A Home for Wildlife
In 2004, a group called the Ballysaggart Environmental Group was formed. Their goal is to protect the special plants and animals around the lough. This area is a fantastic habitat for many creatures.
- Birds: Over 100 different kinds of birds have been seen at Ballysaggart Lough. Some of these birds are quite rare. You might spot birds like the Eurasian curlew or the Eurasian teal. Other common birds include mallard ducks and whooper swans. Sometimes, unusual birds visit the lough too.
- Fish: The lake is also home to many types of fish. You can find pike, perch, and rudd. Other fish include roach, bream, tench, and eels. People often enjoy fishing here. The best fishing spots are usually where the water is deeper, especially near the sluice (a water gate) at the northern end.
The Story Behind the Name
The name Ballysaggart has an interesting history. It is thought to mean "the field or townland of the priests." A "townland" is a small area of land in Ireland.
Long ago, there might have been a religious building near the northern part of Ballysaggart Lough. This could have been a Franciscan Priory. A priory is a type of monastery where monks or friars live. One such priory was located on Drumbearn Hill, near Castlecaulfield. It opened in 1687. Later, it moved to Donnaghmore and stayed there until the last friar died in 1816 or 1817.
