Bethany Reservoir facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bethany Reservoir |
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Bethany Reservoir and aqueduct
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 Bethany Reservoir
Location in California
Bethany Reservoir
Location in the United States
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| Location | Alameda County, California |
| Coordinates | 37°46′15″N 121°36′03″W / 37.77083°N 121.60083°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 180 acres (73 ha) |
| Shore length1 | 6 miles (9.7 km) |
| 1 Shore length is not a well-defined measure. | |
The Bethany Reservoir is a special lake built by people. It is located about 8 miles (13 km) northeast of Livermore, California, in the United States. This reservoir is a key part of the California Aqueduct system.
It acts like a "forebay" for the South Bay Pumping Plant. Think of a forebay as a small holding pond. It makes sure there's enough water ready for the powerful pumps. These pumps then send water into the South Bay Aqueduct.
What is Bethany Reservoir?
Bethany Reservoir is not a natural lake. It is a reservoir, which means it was created to store water. It holds water that travels through the California Aqueduct. This aqueduct is like a giant water highway. It moves water from northern California to drier parts of the state.
The reservoir has a large capacity. It can hold about 5,250 acre-feet (6,480,000 m3) of water. This amount is important for making sure cities and farms get the water they need.
Why is it Important?
Bethany Reservoir plays a very important role in California's water supply. It helps move water to many homes, businesses, and farms. The water from this reservoir goes into the South Bay Aqueduct. This aqueduct supplies water to parts of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Without reservoirs like Bethany, it would be much harder to get water to where people live. Especially in a state like California, which can have long dry periods.
Fun Facts and Activities
Even though it's a working part of the water system, Bethany Reservoir is also a place where people can enjoy nature. Many visitors come here for outdoor activities.
- Fishing: The reservoir is a popular spot for fishing. You might catch fish like striped bass, catfish, or even trout.
- Boating: People can also go boating on the reservoir. It's a great way to explore the water and enjoy the views.
- Hiking: There are often trails around reservoirs. These allow people to walk and enjoy the scenery.
Remember to always follow local rules and safety guidelines when visiting any reservoir.
