This cache is part of a series of caches placed by New Mexico
Geocachers in a cooperative effort with New Mexico State Parks
(NMSP) to celebrate New Mexico State Parks 75th Anniversary. A
cache has been placed in each of the 34 state parks around New
Mexico.
Set among pines and juniper, the park and its 3,220 surface-acre
lake beckons visitors to enjoy some of Northern New Mexico’s finest
scenery, fishing and water sports. The park offers excellent
opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching, especially in the
winter, when eagles and migrating waterfowl make their
appearances.
Be sure to check the following points of interest while you are
there.
* Steel Membrane Dam. El Vado is home to one of the worlds most
unique forms of engineering and is listed on the State Register of
Cultural Properties. El Vado was constructed in the early 1930’s as
part of the federal unemployment relief effort. The dam
construction incorporates a rock and earth back fill with a Steel
Membrane Face. Only a handful of dams around the world have ever
utilized this type of engineering. The steel membrane is protected
from rusting by cathodic protection. A small pulse of electricity
is sent through the steel that inhibits the formation of rust.
* Grassy Point and Elk Run Campgrounds. The El Vado Lake area
was once home to great stands of Ponderosa Pine Forests. The area
was inaccessible to the lumber industry until the early 1900’s when
the Denver and Rio Grande Rail Road Company constructed a spur
ending at El Vado lakes present location. Soon large sawmills and
were erected and the harvest of the pine forest had begun.
Since this cache is located within the State Park system, a Day
Use or Annual Pass, which can be obtained from any State Park, will
be required.
If you see any of the Park's staff while you are there, be sure
to let them know you are a Geocacher.
Placed with permission.
