Millerton Lake, Reservoir in Fresno and Madera counties, California, United States
Millerton Lake is a reservoir in Fresno and Madera counties, California, United States, extending behind Friant Dam along the San Joaquin River. The water covers an area of roughly 20 square kilometers and reaches a depth of up to 97 meters (318 feet) at the dam base.
Construction of Friant Dam began in 1939 and was completed in 1942 to provide irrigation water for farms across the San Joaquin Valley. The flooding of the reservoir led to the abandonment of the town of Millerton, which had previously served as the first county seat of Fresno County.
The name Millerton comes from the old settlement now submerged beneath the water, once home to gold miners and traders. Visitors find campgrounds and boat ramps around the water where families come for fishing and water sports.
The water level of the reservoir fluctuates with the seasons and irrigation releases, which changes the shoreline throughout the year. Boat ramps and trails may be harder to reach during low water periods, especially in late summer and fall.
At the bottom of the reservoir lie remains of the old town of Millerton, including building foundations and streets that sometimes become visible when the water level drops. Three hydroelectric plants at the reservoir generate power from the released water, with two smaller facilities dedicated specifically to operating fish hatcheries.
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