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Greers Ferry Dam
Gferrydam.jpg
Greers Ferry Dam in Cleburne County, Arkansas
Greers Ferry Dam is located in Arkansas
Greers Ferry Dam
Location of Greers Ferry Dam in Arkansas
Country United States
Location Cleburne County, Arkansas
Coordinates 35°31′15″N 91°59′36″W / 35.52083°N 91.99333°W / 35.52083; -91.99333
Status Operational
Construction began 1959 (1959)
Opening date 1962
Construction cost $46.5 million
Dam and spillways
Impounds Little Red River
Height 243 feet (74 m)
Length 1,704 feet (519 m)
Reservoir
Creates Greers Ferry Lake
Total capacity 2,844,000 acre⋅ft (3.508 km3)
Surface area 31,500 acres (12,700 ha)
Normal elevation 462 feet (141 m)
Power station
Commission date 1964
Type Conventional
Turbines 2
Installed capacity 96 megawatts (129,000 hp)
Annual generation 189 gigawatt-hours (6.4×1011 BTU)

The Greers Ferry Dam is a large dam located in Cleburne County, Arkansas, in the United States. It was built across the Little Red River. The dam creates a huge body of water called Greers Ferry Lake. This lake is found north of the city of Little Rock.

Building the Greers Ferry Dam

Greers Ferry Dam, Heber Springs, Arkansas
Greers Ferry Dam

Work on the Greers Ferry Dam started in March 1959. It was finished in December 1962. The main goals of the dam and lake were to control floods and generate electricity. It also created a popular spot for fun activities.

When construction began, many people came looking for jobs. Workers rented homes or built their own near the site. Local businesses saw a chance to grow. They opened motels, shops, and stores for the workers. Farmers also benefited by selling food to the growing community.

Dedication of the Lake

The new lake was officially opened on October 3, 1963. The President of the United States, John F. Kennedy, came to dedicate it. This was one of his last big public appearances as president. It was also the only time a sitting president has visited Cleburne County.

During his visit, President Kennedy said that projects like Greers Ferry Dam were important. He called them investments in the future of Arkansas and the whole country. He was right! After the lake filled up, many tourists started visiting. New businesses opened, and Greers Ferry Lake became a top place to visit in Arkansas. Today, many towns for visitors are located along the lake's shores.

How the Dam Makes Electricity

The Greers Ferry Dam has a special power plant. This plant uses the force of water to make electricity. It has two large machines called generating units. Each unit can produce 48,000 kilowatts of power. This electricity helps power homes and businesses in the area.

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