Peno Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Peno Lake, located in Hyde, South Dakota, is a privately owned water resource regulated by the DENR.


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Summary

This Earth dam, completed in 1935, stands at a height of 27 feet and spans 995 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 1062 acre-feet, Peno Lake serves a primary purpose that remains unspecified. The dam's low hazard potential and condition assessment of "Not Rated" suggest a stable structure, while its maximum discharge rate of 5200 cubic feet per second ensures efficient water management for its 18-square-mile drainage area.

Despite lacking detailed information on its purposes and spillway type, the Peno Lake dam's design and regulatory compliance make it a notable feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its location in a scenic area of South Dakota adds to its allure, making it an intriguing site for exploration and study. With Dusty Johnson as the local representative, Peno Lake stands as an essential part of the region's water infrastructure, contributing to flood control and water supply management in the area.

As an integral component of the St. Paul District's water management system, Peno Lake showcases the intersection of human engineering and natural resources. While its emergency preparedness and risk assessment details remain unclear, its historical significance and functional design make it a compelling subject for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience. With its tranquil waters and strategic importance for the community, Peno Lake offers a fascinating case study in sustainable water infrastructure development and maintenance.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

995

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

TR-MISSONot RatedI

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

18

Nid Storage

1062

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

27
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.