Natural Gas Flame in Pierre, South Dakota

Provided by: Mike Barondeau, Edmunds Central School
Summary Author: Mike Barondeau

Capitol Lake at the state capitol in Pierre, South Dakota, is fed by a warm artesian well, seen bubbling in this picture. The lake never completely freezes making it a winter haven for many types of migratory waterfowl, including hundreds of Canada geese. The well water has such a high a concentration of natural gas that it constantly burns. The perpetual flame glows in memory of all South Dakota's fallen veterans and public service personnel. Located around the flaming fountain are South Dakota’s Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and the World War II Memorial.