Priest Rapids Dam, Hydroelectric power station on Columbia River, Washington, US
Priest Rapids Dam is a hydroelectric facility spanning the Columbia River between Yakima County and Grant County in Washington, equipped with ten power-generating turbines. The structure harnesses the river's flow to produce electricity for regional communities.
Construction started in 1956 following Congressional approval, with power generation beginning in 1959. The project was part of a larger effort to develop the Columbia River for energy production during the mid-20th century.
The dam's creation transformed the regional landscape from natural rapids to a controlled waterway, affecting both agricultural practices and Native American territories.
Access to this facility is limited since it is an active industrial installation. Visitors should expect distant views from the river or nearby public areas and must respect safety guidelines.
The dam's reservoir flooded the original Priest Rapids, submerging roughly 29 kilometers (18 miles) of river landscape. This now-hidden section was once a defining natural landmark of the region.
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