Meredosia Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Meredosia Lake |
|
|---|---|
 Meredosia Lake
Location in Illinois
Meredosia Lake
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Cass / Morgan counties, Illinois, United States |
| Coordinates | 39°52′30″N 90°33′11″W / 39.875°N 90.553°W |
| Basin countries | United States |
Meredosia Lake is a special kind of lake found near a river. It is part of the wide valley of the Illinois River in Illinois, USA. You can find it in Cass and Morgan counties. A large area between the lake and the river is called Meredosia Island. This island and parts of the lake are protected as part of the Meredosia National Wildlife Refuge.
Contents
How Meredosia Lake Formed
A Glacial Past
Long, long ago, after the last Ice Age ended, a huge lake of melted ice drained very quickly. This event, which happened after the Wisconsin glacial period, shaped the land. It left the lower Illinois River valley, including the area where Meredosia Lake is now, as a wide, flat area. This land was made of special clay and silt that water could not easily pass through.
Riverside Lakes and Wetlands
As the climate in Illinois became warmer, snow melted each spring. This caused floods that filled parts of the valley faster than the water could drain away. Over time, the Illinois River became a slow-moving river with many small channels. It was surrounded by a chain of lakes and wet areas. Meredosia Lake is one of these "backwater" lakes. These lakes are connected to the main river but are often calmer.
Fishing and Wildlife History
A Hub for Fish and Birds
In the past, backwater lakes like Meredosia Lake were amazing places for fishing and hunting waterfowl. The nearby town of Meredosia, Illinois grew because people used the lake's resources. Fishing in Meredosia Lake was very important for many years.
Changes Over Time
Commercial fishing in Meredosia Lake was very active until the early 1900s. Around 1900–1910, the Illinois River began to experience pollution. This pollution affected the fish and the lake's environment.
Meredosia Lake Today
A Place for Fun
Today, Meredosia Lake is a popular spot for outdoor activities. Many people enjoy visiting it for recreation. There is a boat ramp north of the town of Meredosia, making it easy for people to get on the water.
Shallow Waters and Waterfowling
The lake is quite shallow and has a lot of silt, which is like fine mud. Because of this, boaters mostly use the lake for waterfowl hunting. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources helps manage the lake. They work to make sure there are good hunting opportunities for birds like ducks, Canada geese, snow geese, and teal.
