Dale Maffitt Reservoir facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dale Maffitt Reservoir |
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 Dale Maffitt Reservoir
Location in Iowa
Dale Maffitt Reservoir
Location in the United States
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| Location | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 41°31′01″N 93°47′31″W / 41.517°N 93.792°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Basin countries | United States |
Maffitt Lake, also known as the Dale Maffitt Reservoir, is a special kind of lake. It is a reservoir, which means it's a large, artificial lake used to store water. This important body of water is located in Iowa, where four different counties meet. These counties are Dallas, Polk, Warren, and Madison. You can find it at these coordinates: 41°31′01″N 93°47′31″W / 41.517°N 93.792°W.
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What is Maffitt Lake?
Maffitt Lake is not a natural lake. It was created to hold water for a very important reason. It acts like a giant storage tank for water. This water is then used when needed.
Who Owns Maffitt Lake?
The lake is owned by the Des Moines Water Works. This organization is in charge of providing clean water. They supply water to the city of Des Moines and nearby areas.
Why is Maffitt Lake Important?
Maffitt Lake serves as an emergency water supply. Imagine if there was a long period without rain. This is called a drought. During a drought, the water levels in rivers can drop very low. The Raccoon River is a main water source for Des Moines. If its level gets too low, water from Maffitt Lake can be released. This helps keep the Raccoon River full enough. It ensures that the people of Des Moines still have enough water to drink and use.
Fun Things to Do at Maffitt Lake
Besides being a vital water source, Maffitt Lake is also a great place for outdoor activities. The area around the lake is like a big park.
Trails and Picnics
There are many trails around the lake. These trails are perfect for walking or jogging. You can enjoy nature and get some exercise. There are also picnic areas. These spots are great for families and friends. You can bring food and enjoy a meal outdoors. It's a peaceful place to spend time.
