Lake Madawaska facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Madawaska |
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 Lake Madawaska
Location in Ontario
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| Location | Ontario |
| Coordinates | 45°24′20″N 76°20′30″W / 45.40556°N 76.34167°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Madawaska River |
| Primary outflows | Madawaska River |
| Basin countries | Canada |
| Settlements | Arnprior, Ontario |
Lake Madawaska is a special lake in Ontario, Canada. It's not a natural lake, but a "reservoir" (say: REZ-er-vwahr). This means it's a large, artificial lake created by people. Lake Madawaska was made to help power a big electricity plant called the Arnprior Generating Station. This station is run by Ontario Power Generation, a company that makes electricity for homes and businesses. The lake is located near the town of Arnprior, Ontario.
Lake Madawaska: A Man-Made Lake
Lake Madawaska was created in 1976. Before then, this area was just part of the Madawaska River. To make the lake, a large wall called a hydroelectric dam was built across the river. This dam holds back the river's water, forming the lake behind it. Lake Madawaska is sometimes called a "headpond" because it's the main body of water held back by the dam for the power station.
How the Dam Helps Make Electricity
The dam at Lake Madawaska is very important for making electricity. Water from the Madawaska River flows into the lake. When electricity is needed, water is released from the lake through the dam. This flowing water spins giant machines called turbines. The turbines are connected to generators, which then create electricity. This type of power is called "hydroelectric" power, meaning "water electricity." It's a clean way to make power because it uses the natural flow of water.
Where the Water Goes Next
After the water passes through the Arnprior Generating Station, it continues its journey. The Madawaska River then flows a short distance further. It soon joins the much larger Ottawa River. The Ottawa River is a major waterway in Ontario and Quebec.
