Fletcher Pond facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Fletcher Pond |
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 Fletcher Pond
Location in Michigan
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| Location | Alpena / Montmorency counties, near Hillman, Michigan |
| Coordinates | 44°58′58″N 83°50′34″W / 44.98278°N 83.84278°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Thunder Bay River |
| Primary outflows | Hydroelectric plant |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 9,000 acres (3,600 ha) |
| Shore length1 | Privately owned |
| Surface elevation | 728 feet (222 m) |
| Settlements | near Alpena, Michigan |
| 1 Shore length is not a well-defined measure. | |
Fletcher Pond is a large, man-made lake in northeastern Michigan. It is also known as Fletcher Floodwaters. This special lake covers over 9,000 acres (about 36 square kilometers) of land. Before the lake was created, this area was a thick cedar forest.
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How Fletcher Pond Was Made
Fletcher Pond was created in 1931. A large dam was built across the Thunder Bay River. This dam stopped the river's flow, causing the water to spread out and form the big pond we see today.
Why a Dam Was Built
The dam was built for a very important reason. It helps provide water for the Alpena Power Company. This company uses the water to make hydroelectric power. Hydroelectric power is a clean way to create electricity using the force of moving water. The power plant is located in the city of Alpena, Michigan.
Nature and Wildlife
Fletcher Pond is a wonderful place for nature lovers. It has more than 13 islands. These islands are perfect safe spots, or habitat, for many different kinds of water birds. The birds use these quiet islands to build their nests and raise their young.
Osprey Population
One of the most famous birds at Fletcher Pond is the Osprey. Ospreys are large birds of prey that love to fish. Many special platforms have been built around the pond just for ospreys to nest on. Because of these platforms and the many fish in the pond, Fletcher Pond has a very large osprey population. It's a great place to see these amazing birds.
Who Was George Fletcher?
Fletcher Pond is named after George Fletcher. He was one of the people who helped start the city of Alpena, Michigan. Naming the pond after him honors his contributions to the area.
Fun Activities at Fletcher Pond
Fletcher Pond is a popular spot for many outdoor activities. People love to visit for:
- Fishing: The pond is known for its great fishing.
- Bird Watching: With so many birds, especially ospreys, it's a fantastic place to watch wildlife.
- Nature Exploring: Many people enjoy simply being in nature and exploring the area.
- Hunting: During certain seasons, hunting is also a popular activity.
See also
In Spanish: Fletcher Pond para niños
