East Branch Clarion River Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids East Branch Clarion River Lake |
|
|---|---|
East Branch Clarion River Lake and Dam
|
|
 East Branch Clarion River Lake
Location in Pennsylvania
East Branch Clarion River Lake
Location in the United States
|
|
| Location | Elk County, Pennsylvania, United States |
| Coordinates | 41°35′22″N 78°33′41″W / 41.58944°N 78.56139°W |
| Type | Reservoir |
| Primary inflows | East Branch Clarion River |
| Primary outflows | East Branch Clarion River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 5.7 mi (9.17 km) |
| Surface area | 1,160 acres (470 ha) |
| Surface elevation | 1,670 ft (510 m) |
East Branch Clarion River Lake, often called East Branch Lake, is a large reservoir (which is like a big, artificial lake) located in Elk County, Pennsylvania, in the United States. It's part of Elk State Park. This lake was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers when they built a dam across the East Branch of the Clarion River.
Contents
What is the Lake For?
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built the dam in 1952. It cost about $9 million to build. The main reason for building it was to help control floods.
Flood Control
East Branch Clarion River Lake is one of sixteen projects that help prevent floods. These projects are managed by the Pittsburgh office of the Army Corps of Engineers. The lake helps protect areas along the Clarion River, the lower parts of the Allegheny River, and the upper parts of the Ohio River.
The dam has been very successful. It has prevented millions of dollars in damage from floods. For example, it was very important during the big floods in 1972 caused by Hurricane Agnes.
Other Uses of the Lake
Besides flood control, East Branch Clarion River Lake is also used for fun activities. It also helps keep the water clean and plentiful for homes and businesses, especially in dry summer months. The water released from the lake also helps boats travel on the rivers and supports healthy aquatic life.
Fun Things to Do at the Lake
East Branch Clarion River Lake is a great spot for both fishing and boating. There are many types of fish in the cold waters of the lake.
.jpg)
Fishing
You can catch fish like walleye, smallmouth bass, muskellunge, brook trout, lake trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission adds fish to the park's creeks. Some smaller streams in the park even have their own natural brook trout.
Boating and Winter Fun
Boats of any horsepower can be used on the lake. However, all boats must be registered with any state. When winter comes, the lake becomes a popular place for ice fishing and ice boating.
Who Manages the Lake?
The land right around the dam is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The rest of the land around the lake is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. This land is part of Elk State Park.
