Ball Mountain Dam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ball Mountain Dam |
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Ball Mountain Dam and Reservoir
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| Country | United States |
| Coordinates | 43°7′40.66″N 72°46′25.97″W / 43.1279611°N 72.7738806°W |
The Ball Mountain Dam (National ID # VT00001) is a large structure in Jamaica, Windham County, Vermont. It helps control floods on the West River. This important dam was built by the United States Army Corps of Engineers.
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What is Ball Mountain Dam?
The Ball Mountain Dam is a big wall built across the West River in Vermont. Its main job is to stop floods. When heavy rains cause the river to swell, the dam holds back the extra water. This protects towns and farms downstream from flooding.
How Was It Built?
The dam is made of earth and gravel. It was built between 1957 and 1961. The United States Army Corps of Engineers designed and constructed it. The dam stands about 247 feet (75 m) (75 meters) tall. It stretches 915 feet (279 m) (279 meters) across the river at its top.
Keeping the Area Safe
The main purpose of Ball Mountain Dam is flood control. This means it helps keep the West River from overflowing its banks. The dam is owned and operated by the Army Corps of Engineers. They regularly check the dam to make sure it is strong and safe. Engineers are always working to keep the dam in good condition.
Fun at Ball Mountain Reservoir
Behind the dam, a lake forms called the Ball Mountain Reservoir. This reservoir covers about 20 acres (8.1 ha) (8 hectares) of water. It can hold a lot of water, especially during heavy rains.
The reservoir and nearby areas offer many fun activities:
- Fishing: You can fish for different types of fish here. These include Atlantic salmon, smallmouth bass, and trout.
- Camping: There are 111 campsites nearby in Winhall and Jamaica. These are great spots for a family camping trip.
- Jamaica State Park: Right next to the reservoir is Jamaica State Park. It offers even more outdoor fun.
White Water Adventures
The river below Ball Mountain Dam is famous for white water boating. This exciting activity happens during special water releases from the dam. These releases usually take place on one weekend in April and one weekend in September. Boaters enjoy the fast-moving water between Ball Mountain Lake and the downstream Townshend Lake.
