Shelby Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Shelby Lake |
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 Shelby Lake
Location in Kentucky
Shelby Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Ballard County, Kentucky |
| Coordinates | 37°11′12″N 89°01′43″W / 37.1868°N 89.0285°W |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 100 acres (40 ha) |
Shelby Lake is a beautiful natural lake located in Ballard County, Kentucky. It covers about 100-acre (0.40 km2), which is roughly the size of 75 football fields! What makes Shelby Lake super special is that it's one of only three major natural lakes in the entire state of Kentucky.
This amazing lake is part of the larger Ballard County Wildlife Management Area. It is owned and looked after by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. They work hard to keep the lake and its surroundings healthy for both animals and people to enjoy.
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What Makes Shelby Lake Unique?
Shelby Lake stands out because it is a natural lake. Many lakes in Kentucky are man-made, meaning they were created by building dams. Natural lakes, like Shelby Lake, formed over a very long time through natural processes, such as ancient rivers changing course or glaciers melting. This makes Shelby Lake a rare and important part of Kentucky's natural history.
Where is Shelby Lake Located?
Shelby Lake is found in Ballard County, Kentucky. This county is in the western part of Kentucky, close to where the Ohio River meets the Mississippi River. The area around the lake is mostly rural, with lots of forests and wetlands. This natural setting helps to keep the lake's environment clean and healthy.
Who Takes Care of Shelby Lake?
The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) owns and manages Shelby Lake. This government agency is in charge of protecting and managing Kentucky's fish and wildlife. They also provide opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors. For Shelby Lake, this means they work to:
- Keep the lake's water clean.
- Protect the plants and animals that live there.
- Make sure people can visit and enjoy the lake safely.
The Ballard County Wildlife Management Area
Shelby Lake is a key part of the Ballard County Wildlife Management Area (WMA). A WMA is a special place set aside for wildlife. It's also a place where people can enjoy activities like hunting, fishing, and birdwatching. The Ballard County WMA is known for its wetlands and forests, which are home to many different kinds of animals.
What Can You Do at Shelby Lake?
Even though Shelby Lake is a natural treasure, it's also a place for outdoor fun! Because it's part of a Wildlife Management Area, there are several activities you can enjoy.
Fishing at the Lake
Shelby Lake is a popular spot for fishing. The KDFWR often stocks the lake with different types of fish. This helps to ensure there are plenty of fish for anglers to catch. Common fish you might find include bass, bluegill, and catfish. Fishing is a great way to relax and connect with nature.
Exploring Nature and Wildlife
The area around Shelby Lake is perfect for nature lovers. You can often see many different kinds of wildlife.
- Birds: Many types of birds, especially waterfowl like ducks and geese, visit the lake. Birdwatching is a very popular activity here.
- Other Animals: You might also spot deer, raccoons, and other small mammals. The wetlands provide a home for amphibians and reptiles too.
Hiking and Observation
While there might not be long hiking trails directly around the lake, the Wildlife Management Area offers opportunities for walking and observing nature. It's a great place to learn about different ecosystems and see how a natural lake fits into the larger environment. Remember to always follow any rules posted by the KDFWR to protect the wildlife and the lake.
