Gough Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gough Lake |
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 Gough Lake
Location in Alberta
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| Location | Alberta, Canada |
| Coordinates | 52°01′40″N 112°27′26″W / 52.027897°N 112.457318°W |
Gough Lake is a lake located in the province of Alberta, Canada. It is one of many natural lakes found across this large Canadian province. Lakes like Gough Lake are important parts of the landscape and local ecosystems.
Contents
What is Gough Lake?
Gough Lake is a natural body of fresh water. It is found in Alberta, which is a western province of Canada. The lake's exact size and depth are not widely known. However, it plays a role in the local environment.
How Lakes are Formed
Most lakes in Alberta were formed a very long time ago. This happened during the last ice age. Huge sheets of ice, called glaciers, moved across the land. As they moved, they carved out hollows in the ground. When the ice melted, these hollows filled with water. This is how many lakes, including those in Alberta, came to be.
Why Lakes are Important
Lakes are very important for many reasons. They provide homes for many kinds of fish, birds, and other wildlife. Lakes also store fresh water, which is vital for plants, animals, and people. They can help control floods and keep the climate stable in their local areas. People often use lakes for fun activities like fishing, boating, and swimming.
Naming of Gough Lake
Gough Lake received its name from a government surveyor. Surveyors are people who measure and map land. They often explore new areas and record details about them. It was common for lakes, rivers, and other places to be named after these important explorers and mappers. This helped to remember their work and contributions to understanding the land.
The Role of Surveyors
Surveyors played a big part in the history of Canada. They helped to draw the first maps of vast, unexplored regions. Their work was essential for building towns, roads, and railways. By naming places after them, like Gough Lake, their legacy lives on.
Alberta's Waterways
Alberta is known for its many rivers and lakes. These waterways are a key feature of the province's geography. They support diverse ecosystems and provide resources for communities.
Lakes in Alberta
Alberta has thousands of lakes. Some are very large, like Lake Athabasca and Lake Claire. Others, like Gough Lake, are smaller. These lakes are spread across different regions of the province. They range from the Rocky Mountains to the northern forests and the prairies. Each lake has its own unique features and wildlife.
Protecting Our Lakes
It is important to protect lakes and other water bodies. Pollution and climate change can harm these natural treasures. Efforts are made to keep lakes clean and healthy. This ensures they can continue to support wildlife and provide resources for future generations.
