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Lake Vyrnwy, located in Powys, Wales, is a man-made lake that was created in the late 19th century to provide a reliable water supply for the rapidly growing industrial city of Liverpool. The construction of the lake began in 1881 and was completed in 1888.
The lake was created by building a dam across the Vyrnwy Valley, which flooded the valley to create the lake. The dam, which is 144 feet high and 1,700 feet long, was built using over 4 million cubic yards of stone and earth. The lake is now over 12 miles long and covers an area of over 4 square miles.
The construction of the lake had a significant impact on the local area. The village of Llanwddyn, which was located in the valley, had to be completely relocated. Many other farms and houses were also flooded. The lake also changed the local landscape, creating a new environment for plants and animals.
The lake was initially used to provide water for Liverpool's expanding population and industries. The water was piped to Liverpool via a series of aqueducts and canals, a journey of over 100 miles. The lake also provided water for the nearby towns of Bala and Dolgellau.
In addition to providing water, Lake Vyrnwy also became a popular tourist destination. The lake and its surrounding area offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. There is also a hotel and a restaurant on the lake's shore.
In recent years, the lake has become an important site for conservation and habitat restoration. The lake and its surrounding area are home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including rare and endangered species. The lake is now owned and managed by Severn Trent Water, which works to protect and preserve the lake's natural environment.