Summary
Constructed in 1967 by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 31 feet and stretches 350 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, Guericke serves multiple purposes in water resource management, including flood control and irrigation.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Guericke is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as a low hazard potential dam, its condition remains unrated. The dam has a drainage area of 42 acres and a maximum discharge capacity of 511 cubic feet per second. While specific details regarding its hazard potential and emergency action plan are not currently available, Guericke plays a crucial role in the local water management system in Hutchinson County.
With its strategic location and importance in water resource management, Guericke serves as a vital infrastructure piece in the St. Paul District. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the proper maintenance and regulation of dams like Guericke become essential in ensuring sustainable water management practices and protecting communities from potential risks. Its historical significance and operational efficiency make Guericke a key player in South Dakota's water resource infrastructure.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
TR-JAMES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Menno Lake Rec Area
|
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Huber Campground - Lake Menno Rec Area
|
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Oilvet Park
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Guericke