Lake Leonard
Origin
Volcanic activity began 1.1 million years ago in the area and a series of lava domes in the region surrounding the lake were created in about 290,000 years ago. One of the biggest of these domes collapsed leaving a caldera that in time filled with water and transformed into a freshwater lake capable of sustaining life. Solfataras (fumaroles that emits sulfuric gases) occurring on its southwest rim is evident that under this lake is a sleeping active volcano. Active solfataras, fumaroles, and hot springs are also found in the Amacan-Gopod thermal area south of the lake. The Manat thermal area is located north of Lake Leonard.
Disturbances and threats
The edge of the lake is badly silted as a result of human activities on the upper slopes of the watershed, particularly road construction, shifting cultivation and logging. The disposal of mine tailings is also having a direct adverse impact on the lake's resources. The existing Philippine crocodile (Crocodylus mindorensis) population in the lake is endangered because of the present intensity of human activities; the major threats to the species are accelerated siltation in the lake, poaching, pesticides pollution and the destruction of the natural vegetation on the lake shore.
References
External links
- Geographic data related to Lake Leonard at OpenStreetMap