Lake Tenkiller

Lake Tenkiller is a large reservoir located in Oklahoma, United States, created by the construction of the Kerr Dam on the Illinois River. The lake is situated near the Boston Mountains and is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and hiking. The lake is managed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers and is also home to several state parks, including Tenkiller State Park and Cherokee Landing State Park. The lake's scenic beauty and diverse wildlife make it a popular spot for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, with species such as the American bald eagle, osprey, and white-tailed deer.

Geography

The lake is located in the eastern part of Oklahoma, near the Arkansas border, and is situated in the Ozark Plateau region. The lake's shoreline stretches for over 130 miles, offering numerous coves, inlets, and peninsulas to explore. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and valleys, with the Boston Mountains to the south and the Ouachita Mountains to the east. The lake is also near several notable rivers, including the Arkansas River, Canadian River, and Red River. The nearby cities of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Muskogee, Oklahoma, and Fort Gibson, Oklahoma offer a range of amenities and services for visitors.

History

The construction of the Kerr Dam on the Illinois River began in 1947 and was completed in 1952, creating the lake and flooding a significant portion of the surrounding landscape. The dam was built by the United States Army Corps of Engineers to provide flood control, hydroelectric power, and water supply for the region. The lake was named after the nearby Tenkiller Ferry, which was established in the early 19th century by Cherokee settlers. The lake has also played a significant role in the region's history, with nearby Fort Gibson, Oklahoma being a key military outpost during the American Civil War and the Indian Wars. The lake is also near the Trail of Tears, a historic route used by Native American tribes during their forced relocation in the 19th century.

Hydrology

The lake's water level is regulated by the Kerr Dam, which is operated by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. The dam controls the flow of water into and out of the lake, maintaining a stable water level and preventing flooding downstream. The lake's watershed covers an area of over 1,470 square miles, with the Illinois River being the primary source of water. The lake's water quality is monitored by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality and the United States Environmental Protection Agency, with efforts to maintain a healthy balance of nutrients and sediments. The lake is also an important source of drinking water for nearby cities, including Tahlequah, Oklahoma and Muskogee, Oklahoma.

Recreation

The lake offers a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. The lake is home to several marinas, including the Tenkiller State Park Marina and the Cherokee Landing Marina, which offer boat rentals and fishing guides. The lake is also a popular spot for water sports, including water skiing and jet skiing. The surrounding state parks and wildlife management areas offer numerous hiking trails, camping sites, and picnic areas, with opportunities to spot wildlife such as white-tailed deer, wild turkey, and bald eagle. The lake is also near several notable events, including the Tahlequah Dragon Boat Festival and the Muskogee Little Theatre.

Ecology

The lake's ecosystem is characterized by a diverse range of plant and animal species, including fish, birds, and mammals. The lake is home to several species of fish, including bass, catfish, and crappie, which are popular among anglers. The lake's shoreline and surrounding wetlands provide habitat for numerous bird species, including the American bald eagle, osprey, and great blue heron. The lake is also an important stopover point for migratory birds, including the Canada goose and the wood duck. The lake's water quality is monitored by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, with efforts to maintain a healthy balance of nutrients and sediments.

Management

The lake is managed by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, which is responsible for maintaining the Kerr Dam and regulating the lake's water level. The lake is also managed by the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, which is responsible for managing the lake's fisheries and wildlife habitats. The lake is also subject to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board and the United States Environmental Protection Agency, which regulate the lake's water quality and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations. The lake's management is also influenced by the Cherokee Nation, which has a significant interest in the lake's water resources and wildlife habitats. The lake is also near several notable institutions, including the University of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma State University, which conduct research and monitoring programs on the lake's ecosystem. Category:Lakes of Oklahoma