Once The Fifth Largest Dam In America, Arkansas’ Bull Shoals Dam Was A True Feat Of Engineering
By Melanie Johnson|Published June 03, 2022
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Melanie Johnson
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I am a nature lover and self-proclaimed foodie wrapped in one package. In my previous life, I was an Accountant, but numbers were boring and writing is the only thing that fuels my soul. So, I write because it's my freedom...it brings me joy. When I'm not writing dope articles for OnlyInYourState, I am writing and editing articles for my online blog on Medium.com. Or, when I get the chance, I am off on a trip with my family chasing waterfalls, or simply exploring the great outdoors. My mantra is to always find the best part of every day and bask in it.
Just like beavers build dams to protect themselves, humans need to do the same. And in Arkansas, we have built a few dams over the years. But none as incredible as the Bull Shoals Dam, which is a true feat of engineering. It was once the fifth largest dam in America, and the story behind the construction is quite impressive.
Bull Shoals is a small resort town in northern Arkansas, but it has the largest dam and reservoir lake in the state.
After the completion of the dam, the town became a sought-after tourist destination. It is a major fishing and water activity hub in Northern Arkansas.
At first, the funding was insufficient to complete the flood control project, and there were objections from the local power company as well as Congress, about the cost benefits of the dam.
Unfortunately, the project was delayed due to the war, and it was not easy to construct.
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In fact, the Corps had to build the second longest conveyor belt in the world to transport the 2.1 million cubic yards of concrete needed for the project.
The picture above was taken in 1958, seven years after completion.
When constructing one of the largest structures in America, there will be some obstacles along the way. But guess what, they got the job done!
Today, the dam and reservoir serve as a hydroelectric hub providing six states with electric power. It is also a recreational area for locals and tourists to enjoy fishing and water activities.
So, do you understand why Bull Shoals Dam is a true feat of engineering? Tell us what you think in the comments below.
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