Hydroelectric Dam

Hello. I am a big, strong hydroelectric dam. I love to give rivers a giant hug. I stretch my strong concrete arms out wide and hold the water back. This makes a big, splashy lake where fish and ducks can play. It feels like a fun game, but my hug is also magic. It holds a special secret power that helps you every single day. I am so happy to be a big helper for the whole world.

Long, long ago, when the sun went to sleep, the world became very dark. There were no bright lights to read stories or play with toys. A kind and clever man named H.J. Rogers saw the river splashing and playing. He watched it push and pull with all its might. He thought, 'That river is so strong. Maybe its power can make something wonderful.'. So, on a special day, September 30th, 1882, he helped build me. I was the very first hydroelectric power plant. I was so excited to use the river's energy to make a new kind of magic called electricity.

My electricity is like catching tiny, twinkling stars and sending them to your house. They travel through sleepy wires to wake up your lamps so you can see in the dark. My power keeps your yummy snacks cold in the refrigerator and helps your favorite toys buzz and whir. Every time you flip a switch, I am sending you a little bit of the river's energy. I am so happy I can help make your world safe, bright, and full of fun. Using the river's power is my favorite thing to do.