Duck Lake (Iowa) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Duck Lake |
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 Duck Lake
Location in Iowa
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| Location | Allamakee County, near New Albin, Iowa |
| Coordinates | 43°28′30.3″N 91°15′13.1″W / 43.475083°N 91.253639°W |
| Primary inflows | Upper Mississippi River, Upper Iowa River |
| Primary outflows | Upper Mississippi River |
| Catchment area | Upper Mississippi River |
| Basin countries | United States |
Duck Lake is a small, peaceful lake located in the beautiful wetlands of northeastern Allamakee County. It sits on the western side of the mighty Upper Mississippi River, just a short distance north of Lansing, Iowa. This special lake is part of a larger natural area, making it a great spot for wildlife.
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Discovering Duck Lake
Duck Lake is not just any lake; it's a key part of an important natural system. It is nestled within a wetland area. Wetlands are like nature's sponges, helping to clean water and provide homes for many plants and animals. This lake is a quiet corner of nature, perfect for understanding how different parts of an ecosystem work together.
Where is Duck Lake Located?
Duck Lake is found in Allamakee County, Iowa, which is in the northeastern part of Iowa. It's quite close to the small town of New Albin, Iowa. Its location on the western shore of the Upper Mississippi River means it's connected to one of the biggest rivers in North America. This connection is super important for the lake's health and the wildlife that lives there.
Part of a Bigger Natural Area
Duck Lake is a vital part of the New Albin-Big Lake Wildlife Management Area. Think of this as a special protected zone where nature can thrive. This management area is itself surrounded by an even larger protected space: the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge.
- The Wildlife Management Area helps protect habitats for various animals.
- The National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is a huge area set aside to protect wildlife, especially birds and fish, along the Mississippi River.
These protected areas ensure that places like Duck Lake remain healthy for future generations. They are like giant parks for animals, where they can live safely without too much human disturbance.
How Duck Lake Connects to Rivers
Duck Lake has interesting connections to nearby rivers. It is linked to the Upper Iowa River, which flows into the area. The lake also "leaks" directly into the Upper Mississippi River. This means water from Duck Lake can flow into the larger river, and sometimes water from the Mississippi can flow into the lake. This natural flow helps keep the water fresh and supports the diverse life in and around the lake. It's a great example of how all parts of a natural water system are connected.
