Long Branch Dam facts for kids
Long Branch Dam is a large structure built across a river in northern Macon County, Missouri. It's located about 80 miles (128 km) north of Columbia, Missouri. This important dam helps manage water and provides a beautiful lake for everyone to enjoy.
The dam was built by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. Their main goals were to control floods, store water for different uses, protect local wildlife, and create areas for recreation. The dam was completed in 1978. It's an earthen dam, meaning it's made mostly of compacted earth, and stands about 71 feet (21.6 meters) tall. It holds back the waters of the East Fork of the Little Chariton River.
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Long Branch Lake: A Man-Made Oasis
Long Branch Lake is the big reservoir, or artificial lake, that was created when the dam was built. This lake has about 24 miles (38.6 km) of shoreline, which is like the edge where the water meets the land. It can hold a huge amount of water, about 98,000 acre-feet, which helps a lot with flood control.
Fun Things to Do at Long Branch Lake
Long Branch Lake is a popular spot for many outdoor activities. You can go fishing, boating, swimming, and even camping. There are also trails for hiking and places for picnics.
- Long Branch State Park: Right next to the lake is Long Branch State Park. This park has three separate areas where visitors can enjoy nature. It's a great place for camping, fishing, and boating.
- Visitor's Center: At the southern end of the dam, there's a visitor's center. Here, you can learn more about the dam, the lake, and the local environment.
- Atlanta State Wildlife Area: At the northern end of the lake, you'll find the Atlanta State Wildlife Area. This area is dedicated to protecting animals and plants. It's a good place for birdwatching and observing nature.
Why Was Long Branch Dam Built?
The main reason for building Long Branch Dam was to help control flooding in the area. Before the dam, heavy rains could cause the Little Chariton River to overflow, damaging farms and homes. The dam helps to hold back excess water during floods.
Other Important Reasons
Besides flood control, the dam also serves other important purposes:
- Water Storage: The lake stores water that can be used by nearby communities.
- Wildlife Protection: The lake and surrounding areas provide a habitat for many different kinds of animals, including fish, birds, and mammals.
- Recreation: The lake and park offer many opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors, which is great for health and fun!
