Balsam Forebay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Balsam Forebay |
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 Balsam Forebay
Location in California
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| Location | Sierra National Forest, Fresno County, California |
| Coordinates | 37°09′40″N 119°15′10″W / 37.16111°N 119.25265°W |
| Type | Artificial lake |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Built | 1986 |
Balsam Forebay is a beautiful artificial lake located in the Sierra National Forest in Fresno County, California. It's a great spot for outdoor adventures, found not too far from Shaver Lake. This lake was created to help manage water and power in the area.
Exploring Balsam Forebay
Balsam Forebay is a popular place for people who love nature and outdoor activities. It is located about 5 kilometers (3 miles) northeast of Shaver Lake. You can find it close to California State Route 168.
There is a special trail that lets you walk around the forebay. This trail is open to the public. It gives you easy access to the lake from its southeast shore. However, regular cars are not allowed on the road leading directly to the lake. This helps keep the area peaceful and safe.
Many visitors enjoy hiking along the trails around the lake. It's also a great spot for swimming on a warm day. Families often come here for picnics, enjoying the fresh air and pretty views.
How Balsam Forebay Was Made
Balsam Forebay was created by building a large structure called the Balsam Meadow Dam. This dam is a type known as a rockfill dam. It means it is built mostly from rocks and earth. The dam was finished in 1986.
The Balsam Meadow Dam is quite large. It stretches about 404 meters (1,325 feet) long. It stands about 39 meters (127 feet) high. This impressive structure holds back the water, forming the lake we see today. The dam is owned and managed by Southern California Edison. They use it as part of a system to generate electricity.
