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This photographic journal chronicles the history and construction of the high Sierra check dams from the first one at Yellowhammer Lake in 1920 through the last one constructed at High Emigrant Lake in 1951, past the establishment of the Emigrant Wilderness in 1975, and through various stages of support and opposition which are on-going to this day. Each major period in either check dam construction or the period after is divided into separate chapters, with each check dam described in detail with historical and recent photographs, many that have never been published. In addition, available historical writings and records of Fred Leighton and others were utilized to provide a more in depth perspective on the check dams from those directly involved in construction and/or maintenance. Outdoor enthusiasts discovering the Emigrant Wilderness of the high Sierra for the first time might easily consider it a pristine wilderness, rich in wildlife, streams, lakes, and scenic views. And yet, this is one area where the hand of man has worked to enrich the natural landscape. One of the most notable changes man has made in this area is the construction of small rock dams at the outlet of selected lakes and meadows. These dams were called check dams by Fred W. Leighton, who developed the concept of raising the water level of natural lakes and meadows for fishery and riparian enhancement. These check dams provide an enhanced habitat for mountain fish by providing additional water flow in the late summer months when natural streams typically run very low or completely dry.
