Kasegaluk Lagoon facts for kids
The Kasegaluk Lagoon is a long, narrow body of water found along the coast of Alaska. It's like a calm, sheltered bay that's separated from the big Chukchi Sea by a string of thin islands. These islands act like a natural wall, protecting the lagoon from the open ocean.
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Kasegaluk Lagoon: A Special Place in Alaska
Where is Kasegaluk Lagoon?
This amazing lagoon is located in the western part of Alaska's North Slope. It stretches out from a town called Point Lay all the way down to Icy Cape. Imagine a long, skinny lake running parallel to the coast! There are seven natural openings, or "passes," through the barrier islands. These passes connect the lagoon to the open Chukchi Sea. Three rivers, the Kukpowruk, Kokolik, and Utukok Rivers, flow into the Kasegaluk Lagoon, bringing fresh water.
How Big is the Lagoon?
The Kasegaluk Lagoon is quite long, stretching for about 200 kilometers (which is about 124 miles)! It starts around 69°16′N, 163°15′W and extends to about 70°22′N, 160°47′W. That's a lot of coastline!
What's in a Name?
The name "Kasegaluk" has an interesting history. The local Inuit people originally called it "Kasegarlik." In 1929, the spelling was officially changed to "Kasegaluk." Later, in 1965, people in Wainwright recorded the name as "Kasegelik." This name means "spotted seal place" or "having spotted seal." This suggests that spotted seals are, or were, an important part of the lagoon's wildlife.
