Hoover Dam

I am a giant curve of strong white stone, standing tall between two rocky mountains. The sun shines down and makes me feel very warm. On one side of me, a big, powerful river pushes and wiggles. But I am strong. I hold it back and tell it to be calm. This makes a big, quiet, blue lake where the water can rest. I love feeling the cool water on one side and the warm desert air on the other. I am a very special wall, built to be a great helper. I am the Hoover Dam.

I was built because the big river, called the Colorado River, was sometimes too wild. It would splash and flood, making a big mess for the farms and towns. So, a long, long time ago, in the year 1931, thousands of workers came to the desert to build me. It was like building with giant blocks. For five whole years, they poured special, strong concrete to make me grow taller and thicker. I grew and grew until I was big enough to hold back the whole river. On a happy day, September 30th, 1935, we had a big party because I was all finished and ready to start my job.

Now, I work hard every single day. The big, calm lake I make is called Lake Mead. It gives fresh water to people and helps thirsty plants grow in the desert. That is a very important job. I also do something magical. I let some of the river water spin special wheels inside me. This makes lots of power, like sparkly lights for houses far away. I am proud to be a giant helper. I stand strong in the canyon, making sure everyone has the water and light they need. I love my job.