List of dams and reservoirs in Nevada facts for kids
Nevada is a very dry state. Because of this, dams and reservoirs are super important! A dam is a big wall built across a river. It holds back water, creating a large lake called a reservoir. These reservoirs store water for cities, farms, and even make electricity.
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Dams and Reservoirs in Nevada
Dams are huge structures. They are built to control the flow of water. When a dam blocks a river, it forms a reservoir. This reservoir acts like a giant bathtub. It collects and stores water. This water can then be used when it is needed.
Why are Dams Important?
Dams and reservoirs are vital for Nevada. They help in many ways:
- Water Supply: They store drinking water for people. They also provide water for farms to grow crops.
- Electricity: Many dams have power plants. Water flowing through the dam spins turbines. This creates clean electricity.
- Flood Control: Dams can hold back floodwaters. This protects towns and farms downstream.
- Recreation: The reservoirs often become popular spots. People enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming there.
Major Dams in Nevada
A "major dam" is usually quite large. It is at least 50 feet (about 15 meters) tall. Or it can hold a lot of water, like 5,000 acre-feet (6.2 million cubic meters). Some dams are even bigger. They can hold 25,000 acre-feet (30.8 million cubic meters) of water.
Nevada has many important dams and reservoirs. Here are some of the most well-known ones:
Hoover Dam
The Hoover Dam is one of the most famous dams in the world. It is located on the Colorado River. This dam creates Lake Mead, the largest reservoir in the United States. The Hoover Dam was built during the Great Depression. It was finished in 1936. It provides water and electricity to millions of people. These people live in Nevada, Arizona, and California. It also helps control floods.
Davis Dam
The Davis Dam is also on the Colorado River. It is downstream from Hoover Dam. This dam forms Lake Mohave. Davis Dam helps regulate the water flow from Hoover Dam. It also generates hydroelectric power. It was completed in 1951.
Lahontan Dam
The Lahontan Dam is on the Carson River. It is near Fallon, Nevada. This dam creates Lake Lahontan. The dam was built in the early 1900s. It was part of the Newlands Project. This project brought water to dry farmlands in Nevada. It helps farmers grow crops in the desert.
Other Important Dams
- Derby Dam: This is a diversion dam. It helps send water from the Truckee River to the Newlands Project.
- Rye Patch Dam: Located on the Humboldt River. It forms Rye Patch Reservoir. This reservoir stores water for irrigation.
- South Fork Dam: This dam creates South Fork Reservoir. It is part of the South Fork State Recreation Area. People enjoy outdoor activities here.
- Lake Tahoe Dam: This dam controls the water level of Lake Tahoe. Lake Tahoe is a beautiful lake on the border of California and Nevada.
- Wild Horse Dam: This dam creates Wild Horse Reservoir. It is in northern Nevada. It is important for local water supply.
These dams and reservoirs are crucial for Nevada's future. They ensure that people have enough water. They also provide clean energy and places for fun.
