Bridgeport Reservoir facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bridgeport Reservoir |
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Roadside view of Bridgeport Reservoir
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 Bridgeport Reservoir
Location in California
Bridgeport Reservoir
Location in the United States
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| Location | Mono County, California |
| Coordinates | 38°17′20″N 119°13′52″W / 38.28889°N 119.23111°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Primary inflows | East Walker River |
| Primary outflows | East Walker River |
| Catchment area | 356 square miles (920 km2) |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Managing agency | Walker River Irrigation District |
| Built | 1924 |
| Surface area | 3,125 acres (1,265 ha) |
| Water volume | 44,100 acre-feet (54,400,000 m3) |
| Surface elevation | 6,460 feet (1,970 m) |
| Settlements | Bridgeport, California |
| Bridgeport Dam | |
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 Location of Bridgeport Dam in California
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| Country | United States |
| Location | Mono County, California |
| Coordinates | 38°17′20″N 119°13′52″W / 38.28889°N 119.23111°W |
| Owner(s) | Walker River Irrigation District |
| Dam and spillways | |
| Type of dam | Earth |
| Impounds | East Walker River |
| Height | 63 feet (19 m) |
| Length | 900 feet (270 m) |
| Elevation at crest | 6,471 feet (1,972 m) |
| Width (crest) | 15 feet (4.6 m) |
| Dam volume | 132,000 cubic yards (101,000 m3) |
| Reservoir | |
| Creates | Bridgeport Reservoir |
| Total capacity | 44,100 acre-feet (54,400,000 m3) |
| Catchment area | 356 square miles (920 km2) |
| Surface area | 3,125 acres (1,265 ha) |
| Normal elevation | 6,460 feet (1,970 m) |
Bridgeport Reservoir is a large, human-made lake in Mono County, California. It is located at the lower end of Bridgeport Valley. This important lake was created by building a dam across the East Walker River.
The reservoir holds a lot of water, about 42,455 acre-feet. An acre-foot is the amount of water needed to cover one acre of land with water one foot deep. This water is mainly used to help farms grow crops. It also helps prevent floods in areas like Lyon County, Nevada.
Contents
What is Bridgeport Reservoir?
Bridgeport Reservoir is a type of reservoir, which is a place where water is stored. It was formed by building a dam on the East Walker River. The water in the reservoir comes from this river. The reservoir then releases water back into the East Walker River.
How Big is the Reservoir?
The reservoir covers a large area of about 3,125 acres. That's like more than 2,300 football fields! It can hold a huge amount of water, about 44,100 acre-feet. The surface of the water is about 6,460 feet above sea level.
Building the Bridgeport Dam
The dam that created Bridgeport Reservoir is called Bridgeport Dam. It is an earth-filled dam. This means it's made mostly of earth, like soil and rock.
When Was the Dam Built?
The dam was built in 1923. It was constructed by the Walker River Irrigation District. This group manages water for irrigation. The dam is 63 feet tall and 900 feet long. It helps control the flow of the East Walker River.
Who Manages the Water?
The water in Bridgeport Reservoir is managed by a Federal Watermaster. This person makes sure the water is shared fairly. They ensure enough water goes to farms for irrigation. They also help manage the water to prevent floods.
Location and Nearby Areas
The reservoir is located in Mono County, California. The town of Bridgeport is very close to the lake. Bridgeport is the main town in Mono County.
What Else is Nearby?
The Bryant Field airstrip is also located near the upper part of the lake. You can easily get to the reservoir by using California State Route 182.
Fun Things to Do at Bridgeport Reservoir
Bridgeport Reservoir is a popular spot for outdoor activities. Many people visit for recreation.
Boating and Fishing
You can enjoy boating on the lake. It's also a great place for trout fishing. There are resorts along the eastern shore of the lake. These resorts have places where you can launch your boat into the water.
