Merritt Dam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area |
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Merritt Dam, seen from the west
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 Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area
Location in Nebraska
Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area
Location in the United States
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| Location | Cherry, Nebraska, United States |
| Nearest city | Valentine, Nebraska |
| Area | 823 acres (333 ha) |
| Designation | Nebraska state recreation area |
| Governing body | Nebraska Game and Parks Commission |
Merritt Dam is a large wall built across the Snake River in Cherry County, Nebraska. It's located southwest of Valentine, Nebraska. This dam holds back the river's water, creating a big lake called Merritt Reservoir. The dam was finished in 1964.
Merritt Reservoir is a popular spot for outdoor fun. It has about 44 miles of sandy shoreline. The lake covers about 3,000 acres of water. It holds a huge amount of water, nearly 75,000 acre-feet.
Merritt Reservoir: A Great Place for Fun
Merritt Reservoir is a special place in Nebraska. It's part of the Sandhills region. The reservoir was created by the United States Bureau of Reclamation. It helps manage water in the area.
What is Merritt Reservoir?
Merritt Reservoir is a large artificial lake. It was formed when Merritt Dam blocked the Snake River. The dam is 126 feet tall. It's an "earthen dam," meaning it's made mostly of dirt and rock. The reservoir is next to the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest.
Fun Activities at Merritt Reservoir
The Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area is right next to the reservoir. It's a fantastic place for many outdoor activities. People come here to enjoy nature and have fun.
- Boating: You can bring your boat and explore the large lake.
- Fishing: The reservoir is known for great fishing. Many different kinds of fish live here.
- Camping: There are places to set up tents or park RVs. You can spend the night under the stars.
- Hunting: In certain seasons, hunting is allowed in specific areas. This is managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission manages the recreation area. They make sure everyone can enjoy the reservoir safely. They also protect the natural environment.
