Parker Dam | Parker

Parker Dam – In-Depth Detailed Overview

Location and General Description

Parker Dam is a major engineering marvel located on the Colorado River, straddling the border between Arizona and California. It is situated approximately 155 miles downstream from the Hoover Dam and forms the upper end of Lake Havasu, a reservoir created by the dam’s impoundment of the river. The dam serves both as a critical water management structure and a hydroelectric power facility.

Unique Structural Features

World’s Deepest Dam:
Parker Dam holds the distinction of being the deepest dam in the world. This is because about 235 feet (73% of its total 320-foot height) is actually built below the riverbed, anchored deep into bedrock beneath the river’s flow. The dam rises about 85 feet above the riverbed, but its overall structural height, including the submerged foundation, measures approximately 320 feet. This deep embedment ensures the dam’s stability against the powerful forces of the Colorado River.

Design and Construction:
It is a concrete gravity-arch dam, combining the principles of gravity dams (which rely on their mass to resist the water pressure) and arch dams (which direct water pressure into the canyon walls). The dam stretches about 1,060 feet (323 meters) in length across the river and is designed to divert and control water flow efficiently.

Construction History:
Construction began in 1934 and was completed in 1938 during the Great Depression era. The project was a major feat involving thousands of workers, including the establishment of construction camps, access roads, and the installation of heavy machinery for concrete pouring and foundation excavation beneath the river.

Hydroelectric Power Generation

Power Plant Capacity:
Parker Dam houses a hydroelectric power plant equipped with four Francis turbines, each capable of generating approximately 30 megawatts (MW), for a combined total capacity of about 120 MW. This power plant converts the kinetic energy of river water into electricity, providing renewable energy to the region.

Power Distribution:
Roughly half of the electricity generated is dedicated to powering the pumps for the Colorado River Aqueduct, which transports water over 242 miles to Southern California, serving cities like Los Angeles and San Diego. The remaining power is supplied to various utility companies in Arizona, California, and Nevada, supporting regional electrical grids.

Water Management and Supply Role

Lake Havasu Formation:
The dam creates Lake Havasu, a reservoir essential for water storage and management along the Colorado River. This reservoir regulates flow, ensuring consistent water supply for irrigation, municipal use, and environmental conservation downstream.

Aqueducts and Water Delivery:
Parker Dam serves as a key diversion point for two major aqueduct systems:

The Colorado River Aqueduct, delivering water to Southern California.

The Central Arizona Project (CAP) Aqueduct, which transports water to central and southern Arizona, including Phoenix and Tucson.

Legal and Political Significance:
The dam’s construction and water diversion rights sparked intense legal disputes, most notably between Arizona and California. This conflict culminated in the 1963 U.S. Supreme Court decision affirming Arizona’s right to Colorado River water and enabling the development of the Central Arizona Project. The dam thus represents not only an engineering landmark but also a pivotal point in western water law and interstate resource management.

Visiting Parker Dam

Public Access:
Visitors can access Parker Dam via the roadway that spans its crest, which is open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM. The crossing road is relatively narrow and not recommended for large recreational vehicles or trailers. Pedestrians and cyclists often use the dam to enjoy views of the Colorado River and Lake Havasu.

Scenic Views and Recreation:
Both the Arizona and California sides of the dam offer scenic pull-offs and viewing points ideal for photography, sightseeing, and birdwatching. The lake and river below support recreational activities including boating, fishing, kayaking, and watersports.

Nearby Attractions:

Buckskin Mountain State Park, located just 3 miles from Parker Dam, offers camping, hiking trails, and river access for boating and fishing.

Bill Williams National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for wildlife and birding enthusiasts, lies downstream.

The famous London Bridge in Lake Havasu City is about 17 miles from the dam and attracts many tourists annually.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Parker Dam’s operation requires careful balancing of ecological concerns and human demands for water and power. Releases from the dam are managed to maintain downstream river health, support endangered species, and provide recreational opportunities.

The dam is regularly inspected and maintained by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation to ensure structural integrity and operational safety.

Climate and Conditions

The Parker Dam area is located in a desert climate, with very hot summers where temperatures can exceed 110°F (43°C). Winter months are milder, making late fall to early spring the most comfortable time for visitors. Due to intense summer heat, visitors are advised to bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Summary

Parker Dam stands as a monumental engineering achievement on the Colorado River, serving crucial roles in water management, hydroelectric power generation, and regional development. Its unique status as the world’s deepest dam reflects innovative design and construction techniques suited to its challenging desert river environment. Beyond its technical importance, Parker Dam is a gateway to recreational and natural attractions, drawing visitors to experience the scenic beauty of Lake Havasu and the surrounding desert landscape. Its intertwined legacy of engineering, legal history, and environmental stewardship marks it as a significant landmark in the American Southwest.