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Great Lakes

In the center of the state, the Missouri River with its high, rugged and grassy bluffs forms a topographic and climatic bridge between the gently rolling ranch country of the west and the tabletop flatness of the east.

To the east, small grains, wheat and feed grains such as corn and soybeans are primary crops. To the west, cattle ranches prevail where huge herds of buffalo once roamed.

The most prominent feature of this region is the Missouri River and its tributaries. Four huge, rolled-earth dams control flooding and provide hydroelectric power, water recreation and irrigation, as well as wildlife habitat. The Oahe Dam is the largest, backing up the Missouri for more than 200 miles into North Dakota.

Millions of Canada geese and mallards use the "Mighty Mo" as a major flyway between Canada and the Gulf of Mexico. Deer and antelope may be found along the river. Smaller fur-bearing animals include coyote, fox and mink. The rare black-footed ferret and bald and golden eagles may also be seen in this region.

French-Canadians first explored the area in 1743 near present-day Fort Pierre and claimed the territory for France. Lewis and Clark explored the area in 1804 during their famous trek to the Pacific Ocean. They opened America's last frontier and were followed by fur traders and steamboat traffic.

Remnants of military outposts can still be found in the region. The ruins of the Fort Randall Chapel near Pickstown provide an excellent look into the area's historical past. Memorials to Sitting Bull and Sacagawea are found near Mobridge. American Indian tribes maintain buffalo herds and hold powwows and expositions to preserve their rich culture and traditions.

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Great Lakes of South Dakota Association
PO Box 786
204 East Missouri Avenue
Pierre, SD 57501
888-386-4617, phone
www.sdgreatlakes.org

Request a free Great Lakes guide via an online form:
www.sdgreatlakes.org/default.aspx?navid=101