Hoover Dam

Definition

Hoover Dam is a massive concrete arch-gravity dam located on the border between Nevada and Arizona, completed in 1936. It serves multiple purposes, including hydroelectric power generation, water supply, and flood control, making it a crucial infrastructure project for water resources management in the American West.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Hoover Dam was originally called Boulder Dam but was renamed in honor of President Herbert Hoover, who played a significant role in its construction.
2. The dam creates Lake Mead, which is a critical source of water for over 25 million people across several states including California, Arizona, and Nevada.
3. Hoover Dam generates approximately 4 billion kilowatt-hours of hydroelectric power annually, supplying electricity to local communities and industries.
4. The construction of Hoover Dam was a monumental engineering achievement during the Great Depression, providing thousands of jobs and stimulating the economy.
5. The dam also plays a vital role in controlling floods along the Colorado River, helping to mitigate potential disasters downstream.

Review Questions

• How does Hoover Dam contribute to water resource management in the American West?
  • Hoover Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management by providing a reliable water supply through Lake Mead to millions of residents and agricultural areas. It also generates hydroelectric power, which supports energy needs in the region. Additionally, the dam helps regulate the flow of the Colorado River, controlling floods and ensuring that water is available during dry periods, making it essential for sustainable water management.
• Discuss the socio-economic impacts of the construction of Hoover Dam during the Great Depression.
  • The construction of Hoover Dam had significant socio-economic impacts during the Great Depression by providing thousands of jobs to workers who were struggling due to widespread unemployment. This project not only stimulated local economies but also set a precedent for large-scale public works projects. The long-term benefits included improved infrastructure for water supply and power generation that continues to support economic growth in the region today.
• Evaluate the challenges faced by Hoover Dam's operation in relation to climate change and drought conditions in recent years.
  • In recent years, Hoover Dam has faced challenges due to climate change and prolonged drought conditions that have affected water levels in Lake Mead. As demand for water increases amidst these environmental stresses, there are concerns about sustainability and resource allocation among states relying on this critical supply. Evaluating these challenges involves looking at potential adaptations in water management strategies to ensure continued effectiveness of Hoover Dam as a water resource while addressing the impacts of climate change.

Related terms

Lake Mead: A large reservoir created by the Hoover Dam, it is the largest man-made reservoir in the United States and plays a vital role in water supply and recreation.

Drought: An extended period of deficient rainfall relative to the statistical multi-year average for a region, impacting water availability and management strategies.

Reservoir: A storage space for water created by constructing a dam, used for various purposes including drinking water supply, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation.