Lake Oahe

Lake Oahe, a vast reservoir located in the United States, stretches from central South Dakota into North Dakota. Created by the Oahe Dam on the Missouri River, it is a prominent feature in the region, known for its recreational opportunities and historical significance.

Geography

The lake, positioned at 44°27′04″N 100°24′08″W, is one of the largest reservoirs in the United States. It covers an area of 370,000 acres and has a remarkable length of approximately 231 miles, making it the fourth-largest reservoir in the country by volume. The maximum depth of Lake Oahe is 205 feet, and it boasts an extensive shoreline of about 2,250 miles.

Hydrology

As a reservoir, Lake Oahe receives water primarily from the Missouri River, supplemented by other tributaries like the Cheyenne River, Moreau River, and Grand River. Its primary outflow continues through the Missouri River, playing a crucial role in the river’s ecosystem and the surrounding landscapes.

Recreation

Lake Oahe is a hub for recreational activities, attracting around 1.5 million visitors annually. The reservoir is home to diverse fish species, including walleye, northern pike, channel catfish, smallmouth bass, and the artificially maintained Chinook salmon. The lake is also notable for housing endangered pallid sturgeon. Recreational areas around the lake provide facilities for camping, boating, hiking, and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Native American Heritage

The lake’s western shoreline is significantly bordered by the Cheyenne River and Standing Rock Indian Reservations. The area holds cultural significance for many Native American tribes, with two potential burial sites of the renowned Sioux leader Sitting Bull located along its shores. The protection of cultural resources and artifacts in this region is of paramount importance, governed by various federal acts and regulations.

Historical Background

Named after the Oahe Indian Mission established in 1874, Lake Oahe’s history is deeply intertwined with the local Native American communities. The reservoir, resulting from the Oahe Dam’s construction, led to significant changes in the landscape and forced relocation of Native American populations. The flooding of over 200,000 acres on the Standing Rock and Cheyenne River Reservations had profound impacts on these communities, effects of which are still felt today.

Environmental and Societal Impact

The construction of the Oahe Dam and the creation of Lake Oahe were part of the larger Pick–Sloan Missouri Basin Program, which saw the development of five large dams on the Missouri River. This program dramatically altered the river’s ecosystem and the lives of local Native American communities, leading to displacement and ongoing challenges related to compensation and preservation of cultural heritage.