South Fork Stanislaus River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids South Fork Stanislaus River |
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Map of the Stanislaus River watershed, showing the South Fork
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Sierra Nevada Stanislaus National Forest 8,642 ft (2,634 m) 38°13′29″N 119°49′05″W / 38.22472°N 119.81806°W |
| River mouth | Stanislaus River New Melones Lake 1,050 ft (320 m) 38°04′26″N 120°25′24″W / 38.07389°N 120.42333°W |
| Length | 48.5 mi (78.1 km) |
The South Fork Stanislaus River is an important river in California. It flows into the larger Stanislaus River. This river is located in Tuolumne County, California. It travels about 48.5 miles (78.1 km) through mountains and hills. These areas are part of the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Contents
Where Does the River Start and Go?
The South Fork Stanislaus River begins in a place called Hay Meadow. This meadow is found in the Emigrant Wilderness. It is also part of the Stanislaus National Forest. From its start, the river generally flows towards the southwest.
As it moves, the river passes by several towns. These include Pinecrest, Cold Springs, and Long Barn. After these towns, it flows west through a deep valley. Finally, it reaches the New Melones Lake reservoir. Here, it joins the main Stanislaus River.
How Does the River Help People?
The South Fork Stanislaus River is very useful to people. There are two main dams built on this river. These dams help manage the water.
Strawberry Dam and Pinecrest Lake
One of the dams is called Strawberry Dam. This dam creates a lake known as Pinecrest Lake. Strawberry Dam is part of a bigger project. This project is called the Spring-Gap Stanislaus Hydroelectric Project. It uses water from the South Fork and the Middle Fork of the Stanislaus River. This water is used to create electricity. This process is called hydroelectric power.
Lyons Dam and Water Supply
The other dam is Lyons Dam. This dam forms Lyons Reservoir. The water stored in Lyons Reservoir is very important. It provides drinking water to the homes and businesses in the Twain Harte area.
