Southeast of Lassen Volcanic flows one of eight original Wild and Scenic Rivers designated by the Act. Seventy-seven miles of the Middle Fork of the Feather River flows freely through open mountain meadows and steep, rugged canyons before rushing into Lake Oroville, the second largest reservoir in California. The National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act helps balance the preservation of sections of free-flowing river with the crucial need for hydropower generation and water storage. Lake Oroville is one of 20 dams and reservoirs in one of the nation's major water conservation developments. The Central Valley Project in California generates electric power, supplies domestic and industrial water, conserves fish and wildlife, and creates opportunities for recreation.