Mud Lake Above White Rock Dam Near White Rock Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mud Lake is located above the White Rock Dam near White Rock, SD in South Dakota.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The area has a rich history and is considered a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists. The hydrology of the lake is unique due to its location near the White Rock Dam. The lake's water levels are primarily affected by surface flow and snowpack. The surface flow providers are nearby streams and rivers that flow into the lake. Snowpack providers are the surrounding mountains and hills that collect snow and precipitation during the winter months. The lake is used for agricultural purposes such as irrigation, and recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. Despite its popularity, the area has faced issues such as water quality concerns and dam safety concerns.

Reservoir Details

Gage Height, Ft 24hr Change -0.01%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 65.77 ft
2025-02-19
Maximum 80.55 ft
2019-04-08
Average 72 ft
Dam_Height 20
Hydraulic_Height 20
Drainage_Area 1160
Year_Completed 1941
Nid_Storage 95500
Structural_Height 33
Foundations Soil
Surface_Area 3850
Outlet_Gates Tainter (radial) - 3
River_Or_Stream BOIS DE SIOUX
Dam_Length 14500
Hazard_Potential High
Primary_Dam_Type Earth
Nid_Height 33
       
Seasonal Comparison
Gage Height, Ft Levels

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.