Libby Dam MT
Motorcyclist Map
Places Filter: Landscapes
View In Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/L5R2rpYqD4ayeXks8
Description: The Libby Dam is a significant dam and water management facility located in northwestern Montana, USA, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Here are some key details about the Libby Dam: Location: The Libby Dam is situated on the Kootenai River, near the town of Libby in Lincoln County, Montana. It is part of the larger Columbia River Basin. Purpose: The primary purpose of the Libby Dam is multi-faceted. It serves flood control, hydroelectric power generation, water storage, and ecosystem management functions. It is a key component of the Columbia River water management system. Construction: Construction of the Libby Dam was completed in the early 1970s. The dam is an earth-filled structure that stands about 422 feet (128 meters) tall and spans the Kootenai River. Hydroelectric Power: The Libby Dam features a hydroelectric power plant that generates electricity from the flow of the river. It has a generating capacity of approximately 600 megawatts, contributing to the region's electrical supply. Lake Koocanusa: The dam impounds the Kootenai River to create a reservoir known as Lake Koocanusa. The reservoir extends into British Columbia, Canada, and is approximately 90 miles long. It offers recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. International Cooperation: Lake Koocanusa is a unique example of international cooperation between the United States and Canada. The management of water levels and operations of the Libby Dam are coordinated with Canadian authorities to ensure effective management of the shared water resources. Ecosystem Restoration: The Libby Dam and the Kootenai River Basin are known for their efforts in ecosystem restoration, particularly for the recovery of the endangered Kootenai River white sturgeon. Various initiatives and projects aim to enhance the habitat and protect endangered species. Visitor Center: The Libby Dam Visitor Center provides educational exhibits and information about the dam's functions, water management, and the natural environment of the area. Visitors can learn about the importance of the dam in regional water management.