Swan Lake (Kentucky) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Swan Lake |
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 Swan Lake
Location in Kentucky
Swan Lake
Location in the United States
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| Location | Ballard County, Kentucky |
| Coordinates | 37°00′45″N 89°07′05″W / 37.0124°N 89.1181°W |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 300 acres (1.2 km2) |
Swan Lake is a beautiful lake located in Ballard County, Kentucky. It's a really special place because it's the biggest natural lake in all of Kentucky! This means it formed all on its own, without people building a dam. Swan Lake covers about 300 acres, which is like 227 football fields!
This lake is also part of a group of twelve lakes called the Cummins Tract Lakes. They are all connected and work together as a system.
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Exploring Swan Lake
Swan Lake is a great example of a natural wonder. Unlike many lakes that are made by humans building dams, Swan Lake was created by natural processes over a long time. This makes it very important for the environment.
Location and Size
Swan Lake is found in the western part of Kentucky. It's in Ballard County, which is known for its wetlands and natural areas. The lake's large size, 300 acres (about 1.2 square kilometers), makes it stand out. It's a significant landmark in the region.
The Cummins Tract Lakes
Swan Lake isn't alone; it's part of a bigger family of lakes. The Cummins Tract Lakes are a group of twelve lakes that are all connected. Think of them like a chain of pearls, where each lake is a pearl. This system helps manage water and supports a lot of wildlife. These lakes are important for keeping the local ecosystem healthy.
Why Lakes Are Important
Lakes like Swan Lake play a huge role in nature and for people. They are home to many different kinds of plants and animals.
Home for Wildlife
Lakes provide a habitat for fish, birds, and other creatures. Many types of fish live in the water, and birds often visit the lake to find food. You might see ducks, geese, and even herons near the water. The plants around and in the lake also provide shelter and food for these animals.
Natural Resources
Lakes are also important sources of water. They can help control floods by holding extra water during heavy rains. They also help keep the ground moist, which is good for plants and trees nearby.
Fun Activities
While the main focus of natural lakes is often conservation, they can also be places for people to enjoy nature. Activities like bird watching, photography, or simply enjoying the peaceful scenery are common. These activities help people connect with the natural world.
