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List of lakes of Pulaski County, Arkansas facts for kids

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Pulaski County, Arkansas, is a place filled with many beautiful bodies of water! It has over 110 named lakes and reservoirs. These watery spots are not just pretty to look at. They are also very important for people, animals, and the environment.

Lakes and Reservoirs in Pulaski County

What's the Difference?

You might hear people talk about lakes and reservoirs. But what's the difference?

  • A lake is usually a natural body of water. It forms in a dip in the land. Rain, rivers, or underground springs fill it up.
  • A reservoir is a special kind of lake. It is man-made! People build a dam across a river or stream. This creates a large area to store water. Reservoirs are often used to supply drinking water or for power.

Important Waters of Pulaski County

Pulaski County has many lakes and reservoirs. Each one is unique. They help make the county a great place to live and visit.

Natural Lakes

Many natural lakes in Pulaski County are actually old parts of rivers. These are called oxbow lakes. They form when a river changes its path over time. Some examples of these natural lakes include:

  • Big Lake
  • Ferguson Lake
  • Horseshoe Lake
  • Old River Lake
  • Willow Beach Lake

Man-Made Reservoirs

Pulaski County also has many important reservoirs. These are built to store water for different uses. The largest and most famous is Lake Maumelle. It is a very important source of drinking water for the city of Little Rock. Other reservoirs include:

  • Aldersgate Lake
  • Big Dickinson Lake
  • Lake Alpine
  • Lake Nixon
  • Lake Valencia
  • Pine Crest Lake
  • Spring Lake

Why Are These Waters Important?

The many lakes and reservoirs in Pulaski County are super important for several reasons:

  • Drinking Water: Many reservoirs, like Lake Maumelle, provide clean drinking water for homes and businesses.
  • Recreation: These waters are great places for fun activities! People enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking, and swimming.
  • Wildlife Habitat: Lakes and reservoirs are home to many animals. Fish, birds, and other creatures depend on these watery places to live and find food.
  • Controlling Floods: Some reservoirs help control floods. They can hold extra water during heavy rains. This protects nearby towns and farms.

So, the next time you see a lake or reservoir in Pulaski County, remember how special and important it is!

See also

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List of lakes of Pulaski County, Arkansas Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.