The maximum water depth behind Hoover Dam, within its reservoir Lake Mead, is 590 feet (180 meters).
Understanding the Depth of Lake Mead
Lake Mead is the largest reservoir in the United States by volume when full, impounding the waters of the Colorado River behind the Hoover Dam. While the maximum depth represents the deepest point of the lakebed directly behind the dam, the actual water level of Lake Mead experiences significant fluctuations. These changes are influenced by various factors such as precipitation, snowmelt runoff from the Rocky Mountains, and the demand for water withdrawals for municipal use, agriculture, and power generation across the Southwestern United States.
The Hoover Dam itself is an extraordinary feat of engineering, designed to safely contain the immense pressure exerted by this vast body of water. The maximum depth measurement highlights the reservoir's capacity.
For a clearer perspective on the water characteristics of Lake Mead relative to the dam:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Maximum Water Depth | 590 feet (180 meters) |
| Normal Water Elevation | 1,219 feet (372 meters) |
Key Facts About Hoover Dam and Its Reservoir
Hoover Dam is a concrete arch-gravity dam situated in the Black Canyon of the Colorado River, marking the border between Nevada and Arizona. Its construction, a monumental undertaking, took place between 1931 and 1936 amidst the challenges of the Great Depression.
Important details concerning the dam and its vital reservoir include:
- Operator: The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation is responsible for the operation and maintenance of Hoover Dam and its facilities.
- Purpose: Beyond its primary role in water storage, Hoover Dam is a critical source of hydroelectric power, supplying electricity to millions of residents and businesses in Nevada, Arizona, and California. It also plays a crucial role in flood control and facilitates irrigation for agricultural lands.
- Water Levels: Although the maximum depth defines the structural capacity, the operational water levels of Lake Mead are meticulously monitored. These levels directly impact the reliability of water supply, the efficiency of power generation, and the overall ecological health of the Colorado River system. Prolonged drought conditions in recent decades have notably led to historically low water levels in the reservoir.
For more comprehensive information about this engineering marvel, you can explore the Hoover Dam Wikipedia page.
