The U-S Army Corps of Engineers is placing the Oahe Dam’s internal risk classification in the Very High category. Colonel Joe Sahl is Commander of the Omaha District and says the change in classification came following the completion of a major engineering assessment of the dam this spring.
“We’re also starting a multi-year study to work out the right long-term improvement,” Sahl said. “I want to say this part plainly up front. There is no emergency at Oahe Dam, and nothing’s changing for anyone downstream today. The dam’s operating normally.”
The move to the Very High Risk classification puts the Oahe Dam higher up the line for funding improvements.
The Corps has been in touch with local governments immediately below the dam about the change including Pierre, Fort Pierre, Hughes and Stanley Counties.
Thanks KCCR Radio