Marindahl Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lower James Rc&D Ca-171-Ya Beaver
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Marindahl, located in Yankton, South Dakota, is a state-regulated dam on Clay Creek with a height of 58 feet and a length of 640 feet.
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Summary
Completed in 1947, Marindahl has a maximum storage capacity of 3060 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 1570 acre-feet. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a spillway width of 100 feet and a high hazard potential rating due to its poor condition assessment.
Despite being a state-owned structure, Marindahl has not been associated with any other structures and does not have any federal funding or agency involvement. The dam has undergone inspections with a frequency of 3 years, with the last inspection conducted in October 2020. The risk assessment for Marindahl is moderate, with a DSAC assigned date yet to be determined, indicating a need for ongoing risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Marindahl presents a unique case study in dam infrastructure management and risk assessment. With its location in South Dakota and association with Clay Creek, the dam serves as a vital resource for water storage and flood control in the region. Understanding the challenges and maintenance needs of dams like Marindahl is crucial in the face of changing climate conditions and the increasing demand for sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1947 |
Dam Length |
640 |
Dam Height |
58 |
River Or Stream |
CLAY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
58 |
Drainage Area |
72 |
Nid Storage |
3060 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
58 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Marindahl