Near Lake City in Marshall County, South Dakota — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Wealth of Wildlife
Fort Sisseton State Park
Photographed By Ruth VanSteenwyk, April 12, 2016
1. Wealth of Wildlife Marker
The Coteau des Prairies and glacial lakes region was a wonderful habitat for wildlife. The post surgeon, who also served as the post naturalist, kept records of the wildlife he observed. Through his records, we learn that human interference has had a significant impact. By 187 6, Captain Bennett issued an order prohibiting the hunting of prairie chickens on the military reservation because the numbers were declining rapidly. Captain Bennett’s order is believed to be the first conservation proclamation issued in what is now northeast South Dakota.
Elk, buffalo, large grey wolf, black bear, otter and marten are among animals listed in the surgeon’s reports that we no longer find in this region. Some animals that are still common today are deer, red fox, badger, skunk, weasel, beaver, rabbit, ground squirrel and muskrat. Today, the Department of Game, Fish and Parks supports wildlife with feeding plots and stations south and west of the fort grounds.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Forts and Castles • Settlements & Settlers.
Location. 45° 39.591′ N, 97° 32.541′ W. Marker is near Lake City, South Dakota, in Marshall County. Marker can be reached from 434th Ave. near 118th Stret
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Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Post Cemetery (approx. ¼ mile away); This Fort is for the Birds (approx. 0.3 miles away); Bulldozing the Landscape (approx. half a mile away); Blockhouse and Breastworks (approx. half a mile away); Doctor's Residence (approx. 0.6 miles away); Officers' Quarters (approx. 0.6 miles away); Hospital (approx. 0.6 miles away); Stable (approx. 0.6 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Lake City.
Photographed By Ruth VanSteenwyk, April 12, 2016
2. Wealth of Wildlife Marker
Photographed By Ruth VanSteenwyk, December 6, 2015
3. Fort Sisseton State Historic Park Sign
Credits. This page was last revised on March 6, 2017. It was originally submitted on March 4, 2017, by Ruth VanSteenwyk of Aberdeen, South Dakota. This page has been viewed 196 times since then and 6 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on March 4, 2017, by Ruth VanSteenwyk of Aberdeen, South Dakota. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
