Tetapaga Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tetapaga Lake |
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A view down the western portion of Tetapaga Lake
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 Tetapaga Lake
Location in Ontario
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| Location | Temagami, Ontario |
| Coordinates | 46°53′56″N 79°39′44″W / 46.89889°N 79.66222°W |
| Primary outflows | Tetapaga River |
| Basin countries | Canada |
Tetapaga Lake, also known as Lake Tetapaga, is a long, thin lake in the Temagami area of Northeastern Ontario, Canada. It stretches from east to west and is located near an old iron mine called Sherman Mine. A gravel road cuts across the middle of the lake, making it look like two smaller lakes.
The eastern part of Tetapaga Lake looks a bit green. This is because of water flowing into it from the old Sherman Mine. This special water is called "acid mine drainage." It forms when rain or groundwater flows through the old iron rocks at the mine. The western part of the lake is much cleaner because there's hardly any mine waste there.
Contents
Exploring Tetapaga Lake
Tetapaga Lake is a unique natural feature in the beautiful Temagami region. It's known for its interesting shape and its connection to the area's mining history. The lake provides a home for various plants and animals.
Where is Tetapaga Lake Located?
Tetapaga Lake is found in Ontario, Canada. It's part of the larger Temagami region, which is famous for its many lakes, forests, and outdoor activities. The lake is specifically located in Strathcona Township and Strathy Township.
The Mystery of the Green Water
The eastern side of Tetapaga Lake has a distinct green color. This color comes from "acid mine drainage" water. This water flows from the abandoned Sherman Mine, which is right next to the lake's eastern shore.
What is Acid Mine Drainage?
Acid mine drainage happens when water, like rain or groundwater, seeps through old mining areas. When water mixes with certain minerals in the rocks, it can become slightly acidic. This acidic water can then pick up tiny bits of metals and minerals. When this water flows into a lake, it can change the water's color, like the green seen in Tetapaga Lake.
The Cleaner Western Side
In contrast to the eastern side, the western part of Tetapaga Lake looks much clearer. This is because very little waste from the Sherman Mine reached this area. It shows how the mine's impact was mostly on one side of the lake.
Images for kids
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A view down the western portion of Tetapaga Lake
