Day 64

When I learned that Lake Hartwell, my idyllic home for the last few days, was a man-made lake, I had an immediate negative reaction.  As one of the largest recreation destinations in the south, I thought that lots of people must have been displaced to make this lake for play.

I did learn that Native Americans once called this land home, but what else is new?  Can’t we say that about all the US?  But the purpose of the project was not to displace natives.  Instead, the lake and the dam that caused it, were made to combat the floods that plagued the area.  Instead of displacing people, the dam and lake have saved people’s homes from floods.

I’ve now decided that this project was a good use of my tax dollars. I also recognize once again that I am subject to the vagaries of my latent biases.  I know better than to jump to conclusions.  I guess that, in the end, I didn’t let my assumptions stop me from learning the truth.  By the way, the civil engineers did a fine job designing this campground.  If you are ever in this area, I highly recommend you consider staying here.  Every site is a good site.  Lucky me.

Watsadler Recreation Area
Hartwell GA