Hydropower: The Hoover Dam In Nevada
Hydropower has been in use in the U.S. since the late 1800’s and the origins of the technology reach back thousands of years and across the globe. Ancient cultures from Greece to Rome to China used water-powered mills to make their lives easier by harnessing the power of water. The Romans would use wheels placed in streams and rivers to power grain grinders, saw mills, and even water pumps. Today hydropower has taken on an enormously different purpose not even conceived by those who first considered it. The Hoover Dam in Nevada, named for President Herbert Hoover, who was personally involved in the construction discussions concerning the location, cost and safety of the dam(desertusa) It is a project of the Bureau of Reclamation, Department
of Interior of the United States(see image 1). Their mission is to “manage, develop and protect water related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner for the benefit of the American public”(nps.gov). This organization oversees the Hoover Dam project which includes Colorado River flood control, water for irrigation, electricity generation, recreation and wildlife habitation. Obviously, this ancient idea changed the future in ways the Romans could have never imagined.
of Interior of the United States(see image 1). Their mission is to “manage, develop and protect water related resources in an environmentally and economically sound manner for the benefit of the American public”(nps.gov). This organization oversees the Hoover Dam project which includes Colorado River flood control, water for irrigation, electricity generation, recreation and wildlife habitation. Obviously, this ancient idea changed the future in ways the Romans could have never imagined.