Wishon Dam, Embankment dam in Fresno County, California.
Wishon Dam is an earthen dam in California's Sierra National Forest that holds back a large reservoir for water storage and recreation. The structure sits in mountainous terrain and forms part of a water management system serving the region.
The dam was built in 1958 by Pacific Gas and Electric Company to create a reservoir where a mountain meadow once existed. Its construction served the region's growing need for water storage in the Sierra Nevada.
The dam forms part of the Haas-Kings River Project, connecting with Courtright Dam to power the Helms Pumped Storage Plant in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
A campground with several sites sits near the reservoir and offers a base for fishing and boating activities. Visitors should be prepared for mountain conditions and bring appropriate gear for outdoor recreation.
The dam operates as part of a reversible water system that releases water when electricity demand peaks and pumps it back into another reservoir during quiet periods. This approach allows the facility to balance power generation with water storage needs.
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