The Tom Steed Lake, located in Kiowa County, Oklahoma, is a significant waterbody that supports various recreational activities, wildlife habitats, and irrigation purposes. As of the current reporting period, the water level at Tom Steed Lake stands at 1,392.5 feet above sea level, which is approximately 2.5 feet below the conservation pool elevation of 1,395 feet. The lake's water level is monitored and managed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, in collaboration with the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, to ensure a balance between water supply, flood control, and environmental conservation.
The current water level at Tom Steed Lake is influenced by a combination of factors, including precipitation, evaporation, and water releases. During periods of heavy rainfall, the lake's water level can rise rapidly, while extended droughts can lead to significant declines. The lake's water management plan takes into account these fluctuations to maintain a stable water level and prevent flooding downstream. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the average annual precipitation in the Tom Steed Lake watershed is around 26.5 inches, with the majority of it occurring during the spring and summer months.
Key Points
- The current water level at Tom Steed Lake is 1,392.5 feet above sea level, which is 2.5 feet below the conservation pool elevation.
- The lake's water level is managed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, in collaboration with the Oklahoma Water Resources Board.
- Precipitation, evaporation, and water releases are the primary factors influencing the lake's water level.
- The average annual precipitation in the Tom Steed Lake watershed is around 26.5 inches, with the majority of it occurring during the spring and summer months.
- The lake's water management plan aims to maintain a stable water level and prevent flooding downstream.
Water Level Fluctuations and Management
The water level at Tom Steed Lake can fluctuate significantly over the course of a year, depending on various environmental and human-induced factors. During periods of heavy rainfall, the lake’s water level can rise rapidly, posing a risk of flooding downstream. In such situations, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, in collaboration with the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, implements measures to control the water level, including releasing excess water through the dam’s outlet works. Conversely, during extended droughts, the lake’s water level can decline, affecting the lake’s ecosystem and water supply.
To manage these fluctuations, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation employs a range of strategies, including water storage, release, and diversion. The agency closely monitors the lake's water level, precipitation, and evaporation rates to determine the optimal water management approach. Additionally, the Oklahoma Water Resources Board provides input on water allocation and conservation, ensuring that the lake's water resources are used efficiently and sustainably. According to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation's data, the lake's water storage capacity is approximately 229,200 acre-feet, with an average annual inflow of around 150,000 acre-feet.
Impact of Water Level Fluctuations on the Environment
The water level fluctuations at Tom Steed Lake can have significant impacts on the environment, including the lake’s ecosystem and surrounding habitats. Changes in water level can affect the distribution and abundance of aquatic species, as well as the quality of water and sediment. For example, low water levels can expose shoreline habitats, leading to the loss of vegetation and increased erosion. Conversely, high water levels can flood terrestrial habitats, displacing wildlife and altering the composition of plant communities.
| Water Level (ft) | Conservation Pool Elevation (ft) | Water Storage Capacity (acre-feet) |
|---|---|---|
| 1,392.5 | 1,395 | 229,200 |
Recreational Activities and Water Level
The water level at Tom Steed Lake also affects recreational activities, such as boating, fishing, and swimming. During periods of low water level, boat ramps and swimming areas may be closed, while high water levels can limit access to certain areas of the lake. Anglers, in particular, are affected by changes in water level, as these can alter the distribution and behavior of fish species. According to the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, the lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and catfish.
To mitigate the impacts of water level fluctuations on recreational activities, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation provide information on the lake's water level and recreational access. Visitors can check the lake's website or contact the lake's management office for up-to-date information on water levels, boat ramp closures, and fishing restrictions. Additionally, the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation offers guided fishing tours and educational programs to promote sustainable fishing practices and environmental awareness.
What is the current water level at Tom Steed Lake?
+The current water level at Tom Steed Lake is 1,392.5 feet above sea level, which is 2.5 feet below the conservation pool elevation.
How is the water level at Tom Steed Lake managed?
+The water level at Tom Steed Lake is managed by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, in collaboration with the Oklahoma Water Resources Board, to maintain a balance between water supply, flood control, and environmental conservation.
What are the impacts of water level fluctuations on the environment?
+Water level fluctuations at Tom Steed Lake can have significant impacts on the environment, including the lake's ecosystem and surrounding habitats. Changes in water level can affect the distribution and abundance of aquatic species, as well as the quality of water and sediment.
In conclusion, the water level at Tom Steed Lake is a critical factor in maintaining a balance between water supply, flood control, and environmental conservation. By understanding the complex interactions between the lake’s water level, precipitation, evaporation, and water releases, we can develop effective strategies for managing the lake’s water resources and minimizing the risks associated with water level fluctuations. As we move forward, it is essential to adopt a holistic approach to water management, considering the needs of both humans and the environment, to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital resource.
