Big Lake (Iowa) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Big Lake |
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 Big Lake
Location in Iowa
Big Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Allamakee County, Iowa |
| Coordinates | 43°23′57″N 91°13′04″W / 43.3992°N 91.2177°W |
| Type | Reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Upper Mississippi River |
| Primary outflows | Upper Mississippi River |
| Basin countries | United States |
Big Lake is a large area of water that is part of the Upper Mississippi River. It is surrounded by many marshy islands. These islands are like small pieces of land that are often wet and covered in tall grasses.
Big Lake is located in a special spot where three states meet: Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. You can find it just north of a town called Lansing, Iowa.
Discover Big Lake
Big Lake is not just any lake; it is part of a bigger system called Navigation Pool 9. The Upper Mississippi River has several "pools" which are sections of the river where the water level is controlled. This is done using dams and locks. These pools help boats travel safely up and down the river.
The lake is also a very important part of the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. This refuge is a protected area. It helps keep the natural environment safe for many different kinds of animals and plants.
Why is Big Lake Important?
Big Lake provides a home for many types of fish. It also supports other wildlife that live in and around the water. This includes birds, mammals, and insects. Protecting places like Big Lake helps keep our natural world healthy.
Who Looks After Big Lake?
The United States Army Corps of Engineers helps take care of Big Lake. They are a group that works to manage water resources in the United States. For Big Lake, their job is to make sure the lake stays a good place for fish to live. They work to keep the lake's environment healthy and stable.
This work helps protect the lake's natural balance. It ensures that fish and other creatures have a safe and healthy place to thrive.
