Artificial Water Retention
Hydroelectric Dams (Tour Map symbol 'H')
Four large reservoirs were formed on the Missouri River when four hydroelectric dams were constructed in 1950's -1960's. Dam construction met four objectives to provide: flood control, hydroelectric power, recreation opportunities, and irrigation for farms and ranches. The dams generate great supplies of electricity which is funneled into the regional power grid to supply surrounding states. Numerous state parks and commercial recreational centers serve boating, fishing, and hunting activities.
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Reservoirs
Impoundments smaller than the four large Missouri River Dam projects have created reservoirs to provide local interests with drinking water, flood control, recreational opportunities, and irrigation for farms and ranches. The Orman Lake Dam in western South Dakota was one of the largest earthen impoundments when it was constructed in the early 20th century to provide water for irrigating agricultural land. Other impoundments have been constructed in the state and are managed by the South Dakota Department of Parks and Recreation. These offer the public many affordable recreational facilities.
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Stock Dams
Very small Impoundments have been constructed on individual farms and ranches to retain water moving through the landscape or drawn underground sources for watering livestock. Without these stock dams, livestock would suffer from dehydration during the driest months. The stock dams also serve to cool off the livestock during hot weather.
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