South Fork Dam (Nevada) facts for kids
The South Fork Dam is a special wall built across a river in Elko County, Nevada. It's located in the northeastern part of Nevada, about 15 miles south of the town of Elko. This dam helps control water and creates a big lake for people to enjoy.
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What is the South Fork Dam?
The South Fork Dam is an earthen dam. This means it's made mostly from soil, rock, and clay, packed together very tightly. It was finished in 1988 by the Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Why Was the Dam Built?
The main reasons for building the South Fork Dam were:
- Flood Control: It helps stop the South Fork Humboldt River from overflowing its banks. This protects homes and land downstream from floods.
- Recreation: The dam creates a large lake called the South Fork Reservoir. This lake is a great place for outdoor activities.
How Big is the Dam?
The dam is quite large! It stands about 72 feet tall, which is like a seven-story building. It stretches for 1,650 feet across the river, which is more than five football fields long.
South Fork Reservoir: A Place for Fun
The South Fork Reservoir is a big lake that covers about 1,650 acres. That's like having 1,250 football fields filled with water! Around the lake, there are 2,200 acres of marsh, grassy meadows, and rolling hills.
Fishing Adventures
One of the most popular things to do at South Fork Reservoir is fishing. The lake is home to many different kinds of fish, including:
- Rainbow and brown trout
- Cutt-bow trout
- Smallmouth and largemouth black bass
- Wiper hybrid bass
- Channel catfish
Camping and More
If you love camping, there's a campground right next to the reservoir. It's part of the South Fork State Recreation Area. This area has 25 campsites where families can stay and enjoy nature. It's a perfect spot for a weekend getaway.
