Little Wood Dam facts for kids
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The Little Wood Dam, also known as the Little Wood River Dam, is a large structure built across the Little Wood River. You can find it in central Blaine County, Idaho, in the United States. It's about 16 kilometers (10 miles) northwest of a town called Carey. This dam helps manage the river's water for different uses.
Contents
About the Little Wood Dam
Building the Dam
The Little Wood Dam is an earthen dam. This means it's made mostly from earth, like soil and rock. It was first built between 1936 and 1939. The United States Bureau of Reclamation constructed it. Their main goals were to control floods and store water for irrigation. Irrigation is when water is supplied to help crops grow.
In 1960, the dam was updated. During this update, a special power plant was added. This plant uses the force of the water to create electricity. It's called a hydroelectric power plant. This single unit can make three megawatts of power.
Dam Size and Ownership
The dam is quite large! It stands about 39 meters (129 feet) tall. At its top, called the crest, it stretches for about 945 meters (3,100 feet).
The United States Bureau of Reclamation still owns the dam. However, a local group called the Little Wood River Irrigation District operates it. They manage how the water is used for farming in the area.
The Little Wood River Reservoir
The dam creates a large body of water called the Little Wood River Reservoir. This reservoir can hold a lot of water. Its maximum capacity is about 37 million cubic meters (30,000 acre-feet). The shoreline of the reservoir stretches for about 14.5 kilometers (9 miles).
Fun at the Reservoir
The Little Wood River Reservoir is a popular spot for outdoor activities. Many people enjoy visiting it for recreation.
- Fishing: Anglers can catch different types of trout here. These include rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout.
- Hunting: Some areas around the reservoir are open for hunting.
- Boating: People can bring their boats out on the water.
- Camping: There are places where you can set up a tent and camp overnight.
- Hiking: Trails around the reservoir offer great opportunities for walking and exploring nature.
