Daniel-Johnson Dam, Arch dam in Rivière-aux-Outardes, Canada
Daniel-Johnson Dam is an arch dam on the Manicouagan River in Quebec, Canada, composed of fourteen buttresses and thirteen arches spanning 1,314 meters. Its height of 214 meters makes it the tallest multiple-arch dam in the world and a landmark of North American hydropower.
Construction started in 1959 and lasted nine years, with more than 5,000 workers on site at the same time. Inauguration took place in 1968, shortly after the structure was renamed to honor the late premier.
The structure takes its name from the Quebec premier who died shortly before the inauguration and whose vision shaped the project. Visitors can see today at the interpretation center how this engineering achievement drove the economic development of the region.
Guided tours run during summer and are offered in both official languages, without requiring admission. Parking for cars and larger vehicles is available directly at the visitor center.
The reservoir surrounds René-Levasseur Island, formed by an ancient meteorite crater and considered the second largest lake island on Earth. This circular lake is clearly visible from space and is sometimes called the eye of Quebec.
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