Lake Mayfield is a man-made reservoir located in Lewis County, Washington. The history of Lake Mayfield dates back to the early 20th century when the idea of constructing a dam on the Cowlitz River was first proposed. The primary purpose of the dam was to provide hydroelectric power to the surrounding region and to create a reservoir for water storage and recreational activities.
Construction of the Mayfield Dam began in the late 1950s and was completed in 1963 by the Pacific Power & Light Company. The dam stands at a height of 850 feet and spans the Cowlitz River, creating the 13-mile long Lake Mayfield behind it. The reservoir has a maximum depth of around 200 feet and a surface area of approximately 2,250 acres, making it a significant water body in the region.
The completion of the dam and the formation of Lake Mayfield had profound impacts on the surrounding area. The reservoir provided a reliable source of water for irrigation, municipal use, and flood control in the region. It also generated electricity through the operation of the hydroelectric power plant located at the dam. This helped meet the growing energy demands of the local communities and industries.
In addition to its utilitarian functions, Lake Mayfield has become a popular recreational destination over the years. The reservoir offers a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, camping, and swimming, attracting tourists and locals alike. The surrounding landscape of the lake, with its forests, mountains, and wildlife, further enhances the recreational experience for visitors.
The creation of Lake Mayfield also had environmental implications. The reservoir altered the natural flow regime of the Cowlitz River and disrupted the habitats of aquatic species. Efforts have been made to mitigate these impacts through fish management programs and habitat restoration projects to ensure the long-term ecological health of the area.
Today, Lake Mayfield continues to play a vital role in the economic, social, and environmental fabric of the region. It supplies clean energy to the local grid, provides water for various purposes, supports recreational tourism, and sustains a diverse range of plant and animal species. The lake serves as a reminder of the transformative power of human engineering and the importance of balancing human needs with environmental stewardship.