Tinemaha Reservoir, body of water
Tinemaha Reservoir is a man-made lake in the Owens Valley, California, formed in 1962 when a dam was constructed on the Owens River to hold back water for regional use. The earthen dam stands about 32 feet (10 meters) high and sits at over 3,800 feet (1,160 meters) elevation, with a roadside overlook providing views of the water and surrounding terrain.
The reservoir was created in 1962 when a dam was built on the Owens River as part of the Los Angeles Aqueduct system that delivers water from the Sierra Nevada to millions of people in Los Angeles. This construction shaped regional development in the Owens Valley and remains critical infrastructure for managing the area's water supply.
The reservoir serves as a gathering place for migratory birds, drawing watchers who observe ducks, geese, and pelicans throughout the year. The seasonal shifts in water levels shape the landscape and influence how local wildlife adapts to these natural cycles.
The reservoir is easily reached from US Highway 395, about 9 miles (14 kilometers) south of Big Pine, where a roadside overlook and walking path along the earthen dam offer clear views of the water. Visit during fall and winter months when migratory birds gather and rest, as the water level fluctuates seasonally, affecting how much shoreline and habitat is visible.
The area was featured in the Western film "Under Western Stars" starring Roy Rogers, which used the natural beauty of the surroundings as a backdrop. In winter, visitors may spot rare birds such as Tundra Swans and Bald Eagles, along with Great Blue Herons that hunt in the riparian zone along the Owens River.
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