Lake Louise Reservoir Report
Nearby: Joy Dam W. Venjohn
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lake Louise, located in Hand, South Dakota, is a state-regulated dam with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment.
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Summary
Built in 1932 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), this earth dam stands at a height of 34 feet and has a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet. Situated on Wolf Creek, the dam spans 550 feet in length and features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 140 feet.
Despite its age, Lake Louise remains in good condition with a regular inspection frequency of every three years. The dam is not rated for its condition assessment, but emergency action plans have been prepared to ensure public safety in case of any unforeseen events. The risk management measures for this dam are currently not specified, but it is reassuring to know that this vital water resource is under the oversight of the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Louise serves as a valuable asset in South Dakota's water infrastructure, providing storage for irrigation and flood control on Wolf Creek. With its historical significance and continued functionality, this dam stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of the past while meeting modern regulatory standards to ensure the safety and security of the surrounding community.
Year Completed |
1932 |
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
WOLF CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Nid Storage |
1200 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
34 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
James R Near Stratford Sd
|
409cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lake Louise