Yakima River Quiz

Yakima River Quiz

Washington irrigation basin, dams, tributaries (10 questions).

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Yakima River Quiz: Quick Study Notes

The Yakima River, flowing through central Washington state, is a vital lifeline for agriculture, particularly known for its extensive irrigation system. Originating in the Cascade Range, it winds its way southeast before joining the mighty Columbia River. This basin is a testament to human ingenuity in transforming an arid landscape into a fertile agricultural region through a complex network of dams and canals.

Washington State The Yakima River is located entirely within Washington, flowing from the Cascade Mountains.
Irrigation Basin Central to Washington’s agriculture, especially for fruits like apples and hops, relying heavily on a managed water supply.
Extensive Dams Features a network of dams (e.g., Cle Elum, Keechelus, Kachess) for water storage and flow regulation.
Key Tributaries Major tributaries include the Naches River, Teanaway River, and Cle Elum River, contributing to the main stem’s flow.

Key Takeaways

  • The Yakima River is located entirely within Washington State.
  • Its source is in the Cascade Range, and it flows into the Columbia River.
  • The primary function of its dams and reservoirs is agricultural irrigation.
  • The basin is a leading producer of apples, cherries, and hops.
  • Key dams include Keechelus, Kachess, Cle Elum, Bumping Lake, and Tieton.
  • The Naches River is a significant tributary, joining the Yakima near the city of Yakima.
  • The Bureau of Reclamation manages the Yakima Project, a crucial irrigation scheme.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Yakima River originate and empty into?

The Yakima River originates in the Cascade Range of Washington State and flows southeast to empty into the Columbia River near Richland.

What is the primary economic activity supported by the Yakima River?

The Yakima River is crucial for agriculture, primarily supporting vast irrigated farmlands that produce crops like apples, cherries, pears, and hops.

Why are there so many dams on the Yakima River?

The dams on the Yakima River are predominantly built for water storage and irrigation management to support the arid to semi-arid agricultural lands in the Yakima Valley.

Name a significant tributary of the Yakima River.

A significant tributary of the Yakima River is the Naches River, which joins the Yakima near the city of Yakima.

Which federal agency is responsible for managing the Yakima Project?

The Bureau of Reclamation, an agency of the U.S. Department of the Interior, is responsible for managing the Yakima Project and its extensive irrigation infrastructure.

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