Cool Arizona Places: Roosevelt Lake

The Salt River once flowed freely from the higher elevations around Phoenix as it ultimately made its way to the Valley of the Sun Greater Phoenix area. Roosevelt Lake was created in 1911 with the completion of the Roosevelt Dam on the Salt River. At the time, Roosevelt Dam was the world's tallest masonry dam at about 280 feet high and Roosevelt Lake was the largest man made lake in the world. In 1996, modification of the dam increased its height to 357 feet and expanded the lake's water storage capacity by 20%. The lake had a multi-purpose of flood control, generation of electricity and harnessing the water for irrigation. The dam, lake and its water distribution system turned the Arizona desert into fertile agricultural land.

Roosevelt Lake is a favorite of avid anglers searching for that trophy largemouth bass along with smallmouth bass, channel catfish and crappie. Depending upon lake capacity that varies with the release of water through the dam, there are miles and miles of beach area for camping along the lake's edges. Water-skiing, jet-skiing, swimming and general boating recreation makes Lake Roosevelt a favorite water recreation destination. The lake features several marinas and fee-based camping sites, and contains a wildlife refuge area. The lake has a general store.

In addition to keeping anglers happy, the waters of the storage reservoir also act as a rest area for migrating waterfowl. A closed-to-access site has been maintained by Game and Fish since 1956, and in cooler months, as many as 3000 wintering Canada geese flock here for refuge and to feed on Bermuda grass and filaree.

The area, which contains three lakes in addition to Roosevelt Lake, has over a million visitors a year. Many make the trip especially to see Tonto National Monument, the cliff dwelling ruins of 25 individual rooms in natural caves overlooking the lake. The well-preserved ruins were inhabited by the Salado Indians in the 1300’s.

For More Information: Tonto National Forest  http://www.fs.usda.gov/tonto/
Tonto Basin Ranger District (928) 467-3200 (928) 467-2245 (Marina)

Looking for fast and fair HVAC service? Aaron’s Mechanical Services wants you to stay comfortable all year round.  Most important we want you to spend the least amount of money possible while you stay comfortable. If your air conditioning system or HVAC unit needs service or replacement please think of us and call at 623-388-4436 and we will come to you and solve your cooling Unit service needs.

Presented by;
Aaron’s Mechanical Services
623-388-4436
info@aaronsmechanicalservices.com
http://aaronsmechanicalservices.com