Elk Lake (British Columbia) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Elk and Beaver Lakes |
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 Elk and Beaver Lakes
Location in British Columbia
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| Location | Saanich, British Columbia |
| Coordinates | 48°31′30″N 123°23′46″W / 48.525°N 123.396°W |
| Primary inflows | O'Donnel Creek |
| Primary outflows | Colquitz Creek |
| Catchment area | 11.5 km2 (4.4 sq mi) |
| Basin countries | Canada |
| Surface area | 2.46 km2 (0.95 sq mi) (Elk Lake, Beaver Lake, Elk-Beaver channel) |
| Max. depth | 17.9 m (59 ft) |
| Residence time | 4.4 years (Elk Lake), 0.25 years (Beaver Lake) |
Elk Lake is a big lake located in Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park in Saanich, British Columbia. Even though they have two names, Elk Lake and Beaver Lake are actually connected by a shallow channel. This makes them one large body of water. The park is a popular spot for outdoor fun and a special place for nature.
Exploring Elk and Beaver Lakes
Elk and Beaver Lakes are found in a regional park. This park is a favorite place for people to visit. It offers many ways to enjoy the outdoors. You can go swimming, fishing, or boating here. The park also has trails for walking and running.
A Look Back at the Park's History
In the 1930s and 1940s, Elk/Beaver Lake was very popular. People called it the "Freshwater Playground of Victoria." It was a top spot for fun activities.
However, things began to change in the 1950s. A new road, the Pat Bay highway, was finished. This made people think more about protecting nature. They started to focus on environmentalism.
Measures were taken to help restore the park. The goal was to bring it back to its natural state. This was done to protect its beauty and wildlife. In 1966, Elk/Beaver Lake officially became a regional park. This helped ensure its long-term protection.
What Makes the Lakes Special?
Elk Lake and Beaver Lake are connected by a narrow channel. This means they are technically one lake. Elk Lake is deeper than Beaver Lake. It also holds water for a longer time. Beaver Lake is shallower and its water changes more often. This difference can affect the types of plants and animals found in each part.
The park is home to many different animals. You might see birds, fish, and other wildlife. It's a great place to learn about nature. Protecting these lakes helps keep the local environment healthy.
