Roza Dam facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Roza Dam |
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Roza Dam
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| Location | Kittitas County, Washington |
| Coordinates | 46°44′57″N 120°27′56″W / 46.749036°N 120.465603°W |
| Dam and spillways | |
| Impounds | Yakima River |
| Height | 67 ft (20 m) |
| Length | 486 ft (148 m) |
The Roza Dam is an important structure on the Yakima River in Washington. It is located about 10 miles (16 km) north of Yakima. This dam helps manage water for farming and also creates electricity. It was built a long time ago, in 1939.
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What is Roza Dam?
The Roza Dam is a special type of dam called a diversion dam. Unlike dams that create huge lakes, a diversion dam guides water away from a river. It sends water into canals or pipes for other uses. The Roza Dam helps move water from the Yakima River. This water is then used to irrigate farms in the area.
How Big is Roza Dam?
The dam is quite large. It measures 486 feet (148 m) (about 148 meters) long at its top. It stands 67 feet (20 m) (about 20 meters) tall. The dam holds back about 100 acres (40 ha) (about 40 hectares) of water. This water is then directed to where it is needed.
Making Electricity at Roza Dam
Besides moving water, the Roza Dam also helps make electricity. It has the ability to produce 12,000 kilowatts (kW) of power. This part of the dam started working in 1956. This means it has been providing clean energy for many years. The power generated helps homes and businesses in the region.
Helping Fish at Roza Dam
The Yakima River is home to many fish, like salmon. When a dam is built, it can block fish from moving upstream. To help fish, the Roza Dam has a special structure called a fish ladder. A fish ladder is like a set of steps or pools that fish can swim up. This allows adult fish to bypass the dam and reach their spawning grounds. It helps keep the river's ecosystem healthy.
