Cabra Corral Dam
Salta
The Cabra Corral Dam, also known as Embalse de Cabra Corral, is a large artificial reservoir located in Salta Province, Argentina. It was inaugurated in 1972 and serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation, irrigation, and flood control. The dam is an earth-filled structure with a height of 93 meters, designed with seismic-resistant features such as a clay core and compacted earth and rock layers. Its reservoir spans approximately 13,160 hectares with a water surface area of 115 square kilometers and a length of 18 kilometers. The dam regulates the flow of the Juramento River, which originates from the confluence of the Guachipas and Rosario rivers. The hydroelectric plant has three Francis turbines producing a total of 102 MW, feeding into Argentina's national power grid. The area around the reservoir is popular for camping, water sports, and fishing, with the nearby town of Coronel Moldes serving as the main access point. The dam's spillway can evacuate up to 1,500 cubic meters per second, helping to control seasonal flooding and support irrigation over 100,000 hectares of agricultural land. Its construction was part of a national effort by the state company Agua y Energía Eléctrica de la Nación to develop hydraulic infrastructure. The impressive engineering and natural beauty of the reservoir make it a unique landmark in the Northwest of Argentina.
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Consejo: The best time to visit Cabra Corral Dam is during the warmer months when water sports and fishing are most enjoyable. Visitors should consider accessing the dam via Coronel Moldes, located about 62 km from Salta city. It is advisable to check local conditions and any regulations for camping or water activities. While no specific ticketing is required for day visits, planning ahead for accommodation or camping spots is recommended. The dam area offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and enjoying scenic views, so bringing appropriate gear and supplies is wise.
Datos interesantes
- •The dam's earth-fill structure is 93 meters high, taller than the Chocón dam which is 86 meters.
- •The reservoir covers an area of approximately 115 square kilometers and stretches 18 kilometers from north to south.
- •Its hydroelectric plant operates three Francis turbines with a combined capacity of 102 MW.
- •The spillway can evacuate up to 1,500 cubic meters of water per second to prevent flooding.
- •Cabra Corral Dam supports irrigation for around 100,000 hectares of agricultural land in the region.
Historia
The Cabra Corral Dam project was initiated by Argentina's national state company Agua y Energía Eléctrica de la Nación, created in 1947 to oversee hydraulic engineering works nationwide.
Construction culminated in the dam's inauguration in 1972 by the Panedille Hnos.
company, involving Italian and Argentine capital.
Designed as an earth-fill dam with seismic-resistant features, it was built to regulate the flow of the Juramento River and generate hydroelectric power.
Over the decades, the dam has played a crucial role in irrigation, energy production, and flood control for the Northwest region of Argentina.
Guía del lugar
Dam Structure and Spillway1972
An earth-filled dam with a clay core and compacted earth and rock layers designed for seismic resistance. The spillway is a large slide-shaped structure that activates when the water reaches maximum reservoir level.
Hydroelectric Power Plant1972
The facility contains three Francis turbines, each producing 34 MW, totaling 102 MW of electricity feeding into the national grid. It is connected via high-voltage transmission lines to regional transformer stations.
Recreational Areas and Access
The reservoir area offers spaces for camping, day trips, water sports, and fishing. Coronel Moldes is the main town providing access to the dam, located approximately 62 km from Salta city via RN 68 and RP 47.