S.D. Hydroelectric Dam to Get Security Upgrades

Jan. 11, 2006
Oahe dam and powerhouse near Pierre, S.D., to get federal security and funding review

PIERRE (AP) - More security updates - though not as extensive as those a year ago - are pending at the Oahe Dam and powerhouse north of Pierre.

Eric Stasch, a supervisory civil engineer at the dam, said before work can be done, federal officials must approve both the upgrades and the funding for them.

He said areas that were identified in need of change are minor, compared to security changes last year that included a new steel fence and a vehicle resistant front gate around the power plant. Security cameras and other surveillance measures were also improved.

Stasch said it's hoped that the new security changes can be done by fall.

Security inspections at the dam are done annually. Thorough security checks are conducted every few years.