A Project for the Development of the Woods Creek Ravine, Washington and Lee University Campus, Lexington, Virginia

Abstract

The plan under consideration of the authors is one to investigate and show the feasibility of developing a natural resource, of the oampus. Advantages presented by such a development are distinctly three-fold in nature: aesthetical, recreational, and educational. . . . The general topographical, hydrographical, and geological condittons prevailing in the Woods Creek ravine are highly favorable for development. The topography of the area traversed and drained by the creek presents a suitable site for the construction of a dam near where the northeastern boundary of the campus intersects the ravine. A dam at this location would serve several purposes; first, it would make available the hydraulic power of the creek; second, the pondage created would serve as an artificial lake for beautification of the campus and at the same time fill the want of long desired outdoor aquatic sports. [From introductory section]