Lake Celilo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Celilo |
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 Lake Celilo
Location in Oregon
Lake Celilo
Location in Washington (state)
Lake Celilo
Location in the United States
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| Location | Oregon–Washington border, United States |
| Coordinates | 45°43′34.73″N 120°41′39.79″W / 45.7263139°N 120.6943861°W |
| Lake type | reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Columbia River |
| Primary outflows | Columbia River |
| Basin countries | United States |
Lake Celilo is a long lake created by people! It's a special type of lake called a reservoir. It stretches for about 24 mi (39 km) along the mighty Columbia River. This lake sits right on the border between the United States states of Washington and Oregon.
Contents
What is Lake Celilo?
Lake Celilo is not a natural lake. It is a reservoir, which means it's a large, artificial lake used to store water. It was formed in 1957 when a huge structure called The Dalles Dam was built across the Columbia River. The dam holds back the river's water, creating the lake behind it.
This reservoir stretches upstream from The Dalles, Oregon, all the way to the John Day Dam. It plays an important role in managing the Columbia River's flow.
Where is Lake Celilo Located?
Lake Celilo is found in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. It forms part of the border between Oregon and Washington.
Counties Around the Lake
The lake touches several counties in both states. In Oregon, it's located in parts of Wasco County and Sherman County. On the Washington side, it's within Klickitat County.
How Was Lake Celilo Formed?
Lake Celilo was created as part of a big project to control the Columbia River. The main reason for its creation was the building of The Dalles Dam. This dam helps generate electricity and makes it easier for boats to travel along the river.
The Dalles Dam Project
Construction on The Dalles Dam finished in 1957. When the dam was completed, it began to hold back the river's water. This caused the water level to rise, flooding the land behind the dam and forming Lake Celilo.
The Story of Celilo Falls
Before Lake Celilo was created, there was a famous natural landmark called Celilo Falls. These were powerful waterfalls and rapids on the Columbia River. For thousands of years, Celilo Falls was a very important place for Native American tribes.
The falls were a prime spot for fishing, especially for salmon. Many tribes gathered there to fish, trade goods, and share their cultures. It was a bustling center of life and a sacred place.
When The Dalles Dam was built and Lake Celilo filled up, the rising waters completely covered Celilo Falls. This meant the end of the traditional fishing and trading activities at that specific spot. It was a huge change for the Native American communities who relied on the falls.
Celilo Village Today
Even though the falls are gone, a small community called Celilo Village still exists near the lake. It is home to Native Americans whose ancestors lived by the falls. While it's no longer the busy cultural and economic hub it once was, it remains an important place for the tribes. It serves as a reminder of their long history and connection to the Columbia River.
