Little Camas Dam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Little Camas Dam |
|
|---|---|
 Location of Little Camas Dam in Idaho
|
|
| Location | Elmore County, Idaho, United States |
| Coordinates | 43°21′10″N 115°23′08″W / 43.35278°N 115.38556°W |
| Opening date | 1912 |
| Operator(s) | Mountain Home Irrigation District |
| Dam and spillways | |
| Impounds | Little Camas Creek |
| Height | 44 feet (13 m) |
| Reservoir | |
| Creates | Little Camas Reservoir |
| Total capacity | 18,800 acre-feet (0.0232 km3) |
The Little Camas Dam is an important structure located in Elmore County, Idaho, United States. It is an earthfill type dam, which means it's built mostly from compacted earth and rock. This dam holds back the waters of Little Camas Creek. It creates a large body of water known as the Little Camas Reservoir.
This reservoir is found northeast of the town of Mountain Home. It is also about 3 miles (4.8 km) east of the Anderson Ranch Dam. The dam is owned and managed by the Mountain Home Irrigation District. Its main purpose is to store water for irrigation, helping farmers grow crops. The dam does not produce electricity.
Contents
What is the Little Camas Dam?
The Little Camas Dam is a structure that controls the flow of water. It was built on Little Camas Creek. The dam's main job is to create a reservoir. This reservoir then stores water for different uses.
Dam Construction and Purpose
The Little Camas Dam was completed in 1912. It is an earthfill dam. This type of dam is common. It is built using natural materials like soil, sand, and clay. These materials are packed tightly together. This creates a strong barrier against the water.
The dam's primary purpose is irrigation. It collects water during times of high flow. Then, it releases the water when it is needed. This helps farmers in the Mountain Home area. They use the water to irrigate their fields.
Little Camas Reservoir
The water held back by the dam forms the Little Camas Reservoir. This reservoir is a significant body of water. It can hold a large amount of water. The reservoir's capacity is about 18,800 acre-feet (0.0232 km3).
The land around the reservoir is mostly part of the Boise National Forest. Some state and private land is also nearby. This area is known for its natural beauty. It offers opportunities for outdoor activities.
Location and Importance
The Little Camas Dam is located in Elmore County, Idaho. This region is known for its agriculture. Water is very important for farming in Idaho. Dams like Little Camas Dam play a vital role. They ensure that there is enough water for crops, even during dry periods.
The dam helps manage water resources. It supports the local economy. It also provides a habitat for wildlife. The reservoir and its surroundings are part of Idaho's natural landscape.
