Gailey Reservoirs facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gailey Reservoirs |
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Gailey Upper Reservoir
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 Gailey Reservoirs
Location in Staffordshire
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| Location | South Staffordshire |
| Coordinates | 52°41′25″N 2°05′51″W / 52.69035°N 2.09760°W |
| Lake type | reservoirs |
| Primary outflows | Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal |
| Managing agency | Canal & River Trust |
| Built | 1855 |
| Surface area | 337,000 square metres (83 acres) |
Gailey Reservoir is actually two large lakes, called reservoirs, located in South Staffordshire, England. These reservoirs are very important because they supply water to the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal. They are separated by a dam, which is like a wall that holds back water. The Canal & River Trust owns and looks after these reservoirs.
The two parts are known as Gailey Upper Reservoir, which is on the east side, and Gailey Lower Reservoir, found on the west side.
What is Gailey Reservoir?
Gailey Reservoir was built in 1855. Its main job is to make sure the nearby canal has enough water. Canals need a steady supply of water to keep boats floating and moving through their locks. The reservoirs act like big storage tanks for this water.
Nearby Water Fun
Just a little further west from Gailey Reservoir, past the M6 motorway, you'll find another connected lake called Calf Heath Reservoir. This reservoir is a popular spot for sailing!
- Greensforge Sailing Club is located at Calf Heath Reservoir. It's one of the oldest sailing clubs in the Midlands, meaning it has been around for a very long time, teaching people how to sail and enjoy the water. You can learn more about them here: Greensforge Sailing Club.
A Home for Wildlife
Gailey Reservoir is also a special place for nature. It is a designated nature reserve, which means it's protected to help plants and animals thrive. The West Midland Bird Club helps manage this reserve.
- Bird Watching: Because it's a nature reserve, entry is usually by permit only. This helps protect the wildlife from too much disturbance.
- Heronry: On an island in the lower part of the reservoir, there's a large heronry. This is a place where many herons build their nests and raise their young. It's a fantastic spot to see these tall, elegant birds.
Fishing Spots
Both the upper and lower parts of Gailey Reservoir are popular for fishing, but they are managed by different groups:
- Upper Lake: Fishing in the upper lake is managed by the Prince Albert Angling Society.
- Lower Lake: The lower lake is managed by a group called the Carp Bowl syndicate, which focuses on carp fishing.
