(NM) Conchas Sunshirt

Conchas Lake is a reservoir located in northeastern New Mexico, USA. The lake was created in 1939 as part of the Conchas Dam Project, which aimed to provide irrigation water for the surrounding agricultural lands and control floods on the Canadian River.

Conchas Lake is known for its beautiful scenery, excellent fishing opportunities, and various water sports. The lake covers over 9,600 acres and has over 60 miles of shoreline. It is a popular destination for boating, water skiing, swimming, and camping.

The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, walleye, channel catfish, crappie, and bluegill. The lake also supports a diverse bird population, including bald eagles, great blue herons, and white pelicans.

One interesting fact about Conchas Lake is that it is named after the Conchas Creek, which was named by Spanish explorers in the 18th century. "Conchas" means "shells" in Spanish, and the creek was so named due to the abundance of fossil shells found in the area.

Another interesting fact is that the Conchas Dam, which created the lake, was the first dam built by the US Army Corps of Engineers in the western United States. It is also one of the few earthen dams in the country that uses a spillway tunnel instead of an overflow weir.

Overall, Conchas Lake is a beautiful and popular destination in northeastern New Mexico, offering a range of recreational opportunities and a unique history.