List of lakes of Fergus County, Montana facts for kids
Fergus County, Montana, is home to many important water bodies, including natural lakes and man-made reservoirs. These watery places are super important for the environment, for people, and for local wildlife. They provide homes for animals, places for fun activities, and water for farms and towns. There are at least 14 named lakes and reservoirs in Fergus County.
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Lakes and Reservoirs: What's the Difference?
It's easy to get lakes and reservoirs mixed up, but they are different! A lake is a natural body of water. It forms when water collects in a basin or hollow in the land. Lakes are usually fed by rivers, streams, or rainfall. They can be very old and are often important habitats for many plants and animals.
A reservoir is a bit different. It's a man-made lake! People build reservoirs by putting a dam across a river or stream. This creates a large area where water collects. Reservoirs are built for many reasons. They can store drinking water for towns, help control floods, or provide water for farms to irrigate crops. They can also be used to generate electricity.
Water Wonders of Fergus County
Fergus County is located in the heart of Montana. Its landscape includes mountains, rolling hills, and plains. This varied land means there are different places for water to collect. The lakes and reservoirs here are vital. They support local ecosystems and provide resources for the people living in the county.
Natural Lakes
Fergus County has some beautiful natural lakes. These lakes have formed over thousands of years. They are often popular spots for fishing, boating, and enjoying nature.
- Crystal Lake, located at 46°48′01″N 109°30′55″W / 46.80028°N 109.51528°W, sits at an elevation of 6,014 feet (1,833 m). It is a stunning example of a natural lake in the county.
Man-Made Reservoirs
Many of the larger water bodies in Fergus County are reservoirs. These were built to help manage water resources. They are crucial for agriculture, especially for watering crops in dry seasons. They also help prevent flooding and provide recreational opportunities.
- Bear Creek Reservoir, 47°16′21″N 108°40′58″W / 47.27250°N 108.68278°W, el. 3,143 feet (958 m)
- Carters Pond, 47°08′31″N 109°25′44″W / 47.14194°N 109.42889°W, el. 4,022 feet (1,226 m)
- Flat Top Reservoir, 47°37′17″N 108°47′11″W / 47.62139°N 108.78639°W, el. 2,890 feet (880 m)
- Harri Reservoir, 47°25′51″N 108°34′04″W / 47.43083°N 108.56778°W, el. 2,881 feet (878 m)
- Jakes Reservoir, 47°30′28″N 108°37′22″W / 47.50778°N 108.62278°W, el. 3,002 feet (915 m)
- Jordan Reservoir, 47°26′30″N 108°38′05″W / 47.44167°N 108.63472°W, el. 2,923 feet (891 m)
- Kachia Reservoir, 47°23′29″N 108°34′53″W / 47.39139°N 108.58139°W, el. 2,943 feet (897 m)
- Kosier Reservoir, 47°24′17″N 108°38′12″W / 47.40472°N 108.63667°W, el. 2,910 feet (890 m)
- Lincoln Reservoir, 47°22′31″N 108°42′18″W / 47.37528°N 108.70500°W, el. 3,064 feet (934 m)
- Rindal Reservoir, 47°22′00″N 109°01′39″W / 47.36667°N 109.02750°W, el. 3,652 feet (1,113 m)
- Sloan Reservoir, 47°23′26″N 108°42′00″W / 47.39056°N 108.70000°W, el. 3,045 feet (928 m)
- Stafford Reservoir, 47°33′56″N 109°23′36″W / 47.56556°N 109.39333°W, el. 3,241 feet (988 m)
- Upper Carters Pond, 47°09′05″N 109°25′38″W / 47.15139°N 109.42722°W, el. 4,062 feet (1,238 m)
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