Why are dams important?

Dams are important because they help people have water to drink and provide water for industry, water for irrigation, water for fishing and recreation, water for hydroelectric power production, water for navigation in rivers, and other needs. Dams also serve people by reducing or preventing floods.

Gallipolis Dam
Dams allow rivers to be used for navigation.

Noxon Dam
Dams provide water for hydroelectric power production.

Perry Lake
Dams create lakes for fishing and recreation.

Farm in Colorado
Dams are important because they provide water for irrigation.