What is Table Rock Lake?
Table Rock Lake is a man-made reservoir located in the Ozark Mountains in southwestern Missouri and northwestern Arkansas. It was created in 1958 by the construction of the Table Rock Dam on the White River. The lake covers an area of approximately 43,100 acres and has a maximum depth of 220 feet. Table Rock Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water-based activities.
Importance of measuring the shoreline length
Measuring the shoreline length of Table Rock Lake is important for several reasons. First, it provides valuable information for planning and development purposes, such as identifying potential erosion or flood-prone areas. Second, it is used to estimate the lake’s ecological value and assess the impact of human activities on the shoreline and surrounding ecosystems. Finally, the shoreline length is a key factor in determining the lake’s tourism potential and economic value.
The process of measuring the shoreline
Measuring the shoreline length of Table Rock Lake is a complex task that involves several methods and technologies. Traditionally, it was done manually by walking along the shoreline and measuring the distance with a measuring tape or GPS device. However, this method is time-consuming and prone to errors due to the irregularity of the shoreline.
The role of satellite imagery in shoreline measurement
Satellite imagery has revolutionized the way shoreline length is measured. High-resolution satellite images are used to create digital maps of the lake’s shoreline. These maps are then analyzed using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software to calculate the total length of the shoreline. This method is faster, more accurate, and less prone to errors than manual measurement.
Ground-truthing and verification of shoreline data
While satellite imagery is a powerful tool for measuring shoreline length, it is not perfect. Ground-truthing is the process of physically verifying the accuracy of shoreline data using field observations. This involves walking along the shoreline and comparing the digital map to the actual shoreline. Any discrepancies are then corrected to ensure the accuracy of the data.
The total length of the shoreline of Table Rock Lake
According to the data collected by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, the total length of the shoreline of Table Rock Lake is approximately 857 miles. This includes the main channel and all the coves and inlets. It is important to note that this number is not fixed and can change due to natural erosion, construction, and other factors.
Table Rock Lake’s shoreline compared to other lakes
The shoreline length of Table Rock Lake is comparable to other large lakes in the United States. For example, Lake Tahoe in California has a shoreline length of approximately 72 miles, while Lake Erie has a shoreline length of about 871 miles. However, it is important to note that the shape and topography of each lake can greatly affect the total length of the shoreline.
Factors that affect the length of Table Rock Lake’s shoreline
Several factors can affect the length of Table Rock Lake’s shoreline. These include natural processes such as erosion, sedimentation, and weathering, as well as human activities such as construction, shoreline stabilization, and dredging. These factors can alter the shape and size of the lake and, consequently, affect the length of the shoreline.
The impact of shoreline length on tourism and recreation
The length of the shoreline is an important factor in determining the tourism potential and economic value of Table Rock Lake. A longer shoreline offers more opportunities for recreation, such as swimming, fishing, and boating. This can attract more visitors and generate more revenue for the local economy. Additionally, a healthy and well-preserved shoreline is important for maintaining the lake’s ecological value and supporting biodiversity.
Future changes to Table Rock Lake’s shoreline length
The length of Table Rock Lake’s shoreline is not fixed and can change due to natural and human-induced factors. Erosion, sedimentation, and construction activities are likely to continue affecting the shape and size of the lake in the future. It is important to monitor these changes and adapt management strategies to ensure the sustainability of the lake and its surrounding ecosystems.
Conclusion: Key takeaways about Table Rock Lake’s shoreline
Measuring the shoreline length of Table Rock Lake is important for planning and development purposes, assessing ecological value, and determining tourism potential and economic value. Satellite imagery and ground-truthing are the main methods used to calculate the shoreline length. The total length of Table Rock Lake’s shoreline is approximately 857 miles. Several factors can affect the length of the shoreline, and it is important to monitor and adapt management strategies to ensure the sustainability of the lake and its surrounding ecosystems.
Resources for further reading on Table Rock Lake
- United States Army Corps of Engineers. (2021). Table Rock Lake Shoreline Management Plan.
- Missouri Department of Conservation. (2021). Table Rock Lake.
- Table Rock Lake Chamber of Commerce. (2021). Table Rock Lake.
