K Lazy K Ranch Reservoir Report
Nearby: L. Runestad M. Oehlerking
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
The K Lazy K Ranch is a privately owned property located in Hyde County, South Dakota, along the West Fork Elm Creek.
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Summary
The ranch is home to an earth dam that was completed in 1936, standing at a height of 12 feet and stretching 650 feet in length. The dam has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 1050 cubic feet per second, serving as a vital resource for water management in the area.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the K Lazy K Ranch dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage for the surrounding region. Despite its historical significance, the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment measures remain to be fully developed.
The K Lazy K Ranch dam stands as a testament to early water resource management efforts in South Dakota, contributing to the sustainable use of water and climate resilience in the region. As a focal point for water enthusiasts and climate advocates, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper infrastructure maintenance and emergency preparedness in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
WEST FORK ELM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
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.
K Lazy K Ranch