White Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
White Lake Dam, located in Marshall, South Dakota, was completed in 1933 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and stands as a vital structure in the area.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 28 feet and a length of 775 feet, controls the flow of the Wild Rice Creek and provides essential water storage for the region. With a maximum storage capacity of 3340 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1850 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
The dam's spillway, with a width of 60 feet, is uncontrolled, and the structure is under state jurisdiction, regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR). White Lake Dam poses a significant hazard potential, with a moderate risk assessment rating. Despite being not rated for condition assessment, the dam undergoes regular inspections, with the last one conducted in November 2019. As a state-owned structure, White Lake Dam continues to be an essential component in the region's water management infrastructure, ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the area.
With its historical significance and critical role in water resource management, White Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding the significance of structures like White Lake Dam is crucial in fostering sustainable practices and ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of evolving environmental challenges. As we continue to prioritize the conservation and responsible management of water resources, White Lake Dam serves as a beacon of resilience and adaptability in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1933 |
Dam Length |
775 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
WILD RICE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Drainage Area |
40 |
Nid Storage |
3340 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Wild Rice River Nr Rutland
|
21cfs |
James River At Nd-Sd State Line
|
194cfs |
Bear Creek Nr Oakes
|
5cfs |
James R At Columbia Sd
|
268cfs |
Little Minnesota River Near Peever
|
27cfs |
Maple R At Nd-Sd State Line
|
5cfs |
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.
White Lake Dam