The lake you see before you is known as the 412 Acre Lake. During times of heavy rain however this lake can expand all the way up to 525 acres! It would be impossible to ignore the innumerable bald cypress trees before you. Durring the dry months these trees can suck down up to four inches of water in a single week! These trees release tannic acid which is completly harmless. However, this acid does give the water it's dark black color. During the winter as the acid concentration dies down the water transfers to a green color. One huge benefit to these trees is they also release a natural insect repellent keeping the mosquitos at bay out here on and around the water.
The lake and surronding wetlands also serve as the natural habitat for plenty of wildlife. This area is home to a couple of threatened species such as the gopher tourtoise and the eastern indigo snake. The lake contains plenty of fish to include bream, crappie, redbreast, and bass. Other species you may be lucky enough to see out here are alligators, the white ibis, and the majestic blue heron!
Operating any water control structure is a balancing act. In time of high or low water flow, upstream and downstream water control requirements often conflict. For example maintenance of lake levels for recreation may conflict with downstream needs for water supplies. Careful consideration is needed to determine how much water to hold or release and when. For Emanuel County that responsibility falls on this park.
A watershed is a basin-like landform defined by highpoints and ridgelines that descend into lower elevations and stream valleys. A watershed carries water "shed" from the land after rain falls and snow melts. Drop by drop, water is channeled into soils, groundwaters, creeks, and streams, making its way to larger rivers and eventually the sea. Water is a universal solvent, affected by all that it comes in contact with: the land it traverses, and the soils through which it travels. The important thing about watersheds is: what we do on the land affects water quality for all communities living downstream.
During most periods of the year the dams maintain a water level known as the permanent pool. The level of water is controlled by the elevation of the principal spillway in front of the dam. During heavy rainfall events water will back up, covering a larger area of land known as the flood pool. This water will recede after a few days as water is released.
In order to log this cache please send me a message or email containing the following answers.
1) Acoording to one of the nearby informational signs what creek and what county is the water from this lake released into?
2) Acoording to one of the nearby informational signs what is the only modern change to the gates?
3) What wildlife if any did you see in the park today?
4) (OPTIONAL) Take a photo near the dam and post it to your log!