Norfork Tailwater facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Norfork Tailwater |
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Norfork Tailwater, September 2006
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 Norfork Tailwater
Location in Arkansas
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| Location | near Salesville, Arkansas |
| Coordinates | 36°14′46″N 92°14′44″W / 36.246239°N 92.245481°W |
| Primary inflows | North Fork River, 100 to 6,000 cubic foot (2,800 to 169,900 L) per second from Norfork Dam |
| Primary outflows | White River |
| Managing agency | Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers |
| Built | 1944 |
The Norfork Tailwater is a special part of the North Fork River in central Arkansas. It's located right below the Norfork Dam, near a town called Salesville, Arkansas. This section of the river is about 4.8 miles (7.7 kilometers) long. It starts at the dam and flows all the way to the White River.
The Norfork Tailwater is famous for its many types of trout. You can find brown, rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout here. There are also other kinds of fish living in these waters. A special place called the Norfork National Fish Hatchery helps keep the river full of trout. The cold water released from the dam makes a perfect home for these cool-water fish.
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Visiting the Norfork Tailwater
It's easy to visit the Norfork Tailwater. You can get to the river in a few different spots.
Public Access Points
You can enter the river for free right below the dam. This area is off Highway 177. It's a great spot to start your fishing or exploring adventure.
Private Access Options
There are also some private boat ramps and other properties along the river. If you get permission from the owners, you can use these spots to get into the water. Always ask for permission before entering private land.
River Safety During High Water
Sometimes, the Norfork Tailwater can have very high water levels. This happens when the Army Corps of Engineers opens the dam's floodgates.
What Happens During a Flood Release
When the floodgates are opened, a lot of water rushes into the river. This can change how deep the river is in different places. The water can also flow much faster.
Staying Safe on the River
If you are boating or wading in the river, you need to be very careful during high water. Always pay attention to warning signs and listen to local authorities. The river's conditions can change quickly, so it's important to stay alert and safe.
