Lake Bienville facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Bienville |
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 Lake Bienville
Location in Quebec
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| Location | Rivière-Koksoak / Baie-James, Quebec |
| Coordinates | 55°04′45″N 72°51′40″W / 55.07917°N 72.86111°W |
| Basin countries | Canada |
| Surface area | 1,047 km2 (404 sq mi) |
| Surface elevation | 426 m (1,398 ft) |
Lake Bienville (which is Lac Bienville in French and apišikamîš in Cree) is a large lake located in the western part of central Quebec, Canada. This lake was named after Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville, an important historical figure and the younger brother of Pierre Le Moyne d'Iberville. Lake Bienville is special because its water flows out in several directions. Some water goes east towards Ungava Bay, while other parts flow west into the Little Whale River and the Great Whale River, which eventually reaches Hudson Bay.
About Lake Bienville
Lake Bienville is found in a cool area known as the southern edge of the subarctic climate zone. This means the weather here is often cold. The lake is quite big, covering an area of about 1,047 square kilometers (404 square miles). Its surface is about 426 meters (1,398 feet) above sea level.
Where the Water Goes
The lake's water system is quite unique. It acts like a giant natural crossroads for water.
- Some of its water drains towards the east, eventually reaching Ungava Bay.
- Other parts of the lake drain to the west. This water flows into the Little Whale River.
- The Great Whale River also passes through Lake Bienville on its journey to Hudson Bay.
Amazing Wildlife
Lake Bienville is home to some interesting animals. You might be surprised to learn that freshwater seals have been seen living in the lake. These are seals that have adapted to live in fresh water instead of the ocean. It's quite rare to find them so far inland! Around the shores of the lake, you can also spot wood caribou. These large deer-like animals roam the area, looking for food and shelter.
Future Plans for the Lake
There have been discussions about a large project called James Bay II. This project would involve building a hydroelectric power plant. If it goes ahead, it could cause the land around Lake Bienville to become flooded. This would change the landscape and potentially affect the wildlife and environment of the area.
