Lake Walcott facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Walcott |
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Aerial view of the dam and lake
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 Lake Walcott
Location in Idaho
Lake Walcott
Location in the United States
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| Location | Blaine / Cassia / Minidoka / Power counties, Idaho, US |
| Coordinates | 42°40′N 113°24′W / 42.667°N 113.400°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Snake River |
| Primary outflows | Snake River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 25 mi (40 km) |
| Surface area | 11,000 acres (4,500 ha) |
| Water volume | 210,000 acre⋅ft (0.26 km3) |
| Shore length1 | 80 mi (130 km) |
| Surface elevation | 4,199 ft (1,280 m) |
| Islands | Bird Island |
| Settlements | Minidoka, Idaho |
| 1 Shore length is not a well-defined measure. | |
Lake Walcott is a large, man-made lake located in south-central Idaho, in the northwestern United States. It is a type of lake called a reservoir, which means it was created by building a dam across a river. This beautiful lake is a popular spot for outdoor fun and is an important part of the local environment.
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Discover Lake Walcott
Lake Walcott stretches across four different counties in Idaho: Blaine, Cassia, Minidoka, and Power. It is about 25 miles (40 km) long and covers an area of 11,000 acres (45 square kilometers). That's a lot of water! The lake is fed by the Snake River, which is one of the biggest rivers in the Pacific Northwest.
How Lake Walcott Was Formed
Lake Walcott was created by the Minidoka Dam. This dam was built across the Snake River as part of a big project called the Minidoka Project. The project started in 1909. When the dam was finished, it held back the river's water, forming the large lake we know today as Lake Walcott. Building a dam helps control the river's flow and can be used to generate electricity or provide water for farming.
The Minidoka Project
The Minidoka Project was a major effort to bring water to dry lands in Idaho. It helped farmers grow crops by providing a steady supply of water for irrigation. The dam and the lake were key parts of this project, helping to develop the region.
Fun Things to Do at Lake Walcott
Lake Walcott is a fantastic place for outdoor activities. The Idaho parks and recreation website lists many exciting things you can do there.
Water Activities
- Fishing: The lake is home to many kinds of fish, making it a great spot for anglers.
- Boating: You can enjoy boating on the wide-open waters of the lake.
- Swimming: On warm days, swimming is a popular way to cool off.
Land Activities
- Camping: There are places around the lake where you can set up a tent and spend the night under the stars.
- Picnics: Many families enjoy having picnics by the water.
- Wildlife Watching: The area around the lake is rich in wildlife.
Nearby Attractions
Two important natural areas are right next to Lake Walcott. These places offer even more chances to explore nature and see amazing animals.
Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge
The Minidoka National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area for wild animals. It's a great place to see birds and other creatures in their natural home. Refuges help protect different species and their habitats.
Lake Walcott State Park
Lake Walcott State Park is another popular spot. State parks offer facilities for visitors, like picnic areas, campgrounds, and trails. They are perfect for a day trip or a longer stay to enjoy the beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
Bird Island
Within Lake Walcott, there is a small piece of land called Bird Island. This island adds to the natural beauty of the lake and provides a habitat for various bird species.
