Cottonwood Lake (Jerauld County, South Dakota) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cottonwood Lake |
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 Cottonwood Lake
Location in South Dakota
Cottonwood Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Jerauld County, South Dakota |
| Coordinates | 44°11′34″N 98°45′26″W / 44.1927927°N 98.7571033°W |
| Type | lake |
| Surface elevation | 1,857 feet (566 m) |
Cottonwood Lake is a lake located in South Dakota, a state in the United States. It is found specifically within Jerauld County, South Dakota.
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What is Cottonwood Lake?
Cottonwood Lake is a natural body of water. It is known as a lake, which is a large area of water surrounded by land. This lake is an important part of the natural environment in its area.
Where is Cottonwood Lake located?
The lake is in Jerauld County, South Dakota. This county is in the central part of South Dakota. The exact location of the lake can be found using its coordinates: 44.1927927 degrees north latitude and -98.7571033 degrees west longitude.
The lake sits at an elevation of about 1,857 feet (or 566 meters) above sea level. This elevation helps us understand how high up the lake is compared to the ocean.
Why is it called Cottonwood Lake?
The name of the lake comes from the trees that grow nearby. These trees are called cottonwood trees. They are common in many parts of the United States.
The Story Behind the Name
Long ago, when people were naming places, they often used features from the natural world around them. For Cottonwood Lake, the presence of many cottonwood trees led to its name. This helps us remember the types of plants that are native to the area.
Importance of Lakes
Lakes like Cottonwood Lake are very important. They provide homes for many different kinds of plants and animals. They also play a role in the local water cycle.
Lakes and Wildlife
Lakes are often home to fish, birds, and other wildlife. They offer places for animals to find food, water, and shelter. The areas around lakes can also be important habitats.
Lakes and the Environment
Lakes help to store water. They can also affect the local weather patterns. They are a valuable part of the natural landscape.
