L. Runestad Reservoir Report
Nearby: K Lazy K Ranch W. Knox
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
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Summary
Runestad is a privately owned dam located in Hyde, South Dakota, along the West Fork Elm Creek. Built in 1943, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and has a length of 430 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 108 acre-feet and a normal storage of 53 acre-feet, L. Runestad plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), L. Runestad is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities to ensure its safe operation. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and not officially assessed for condition, this dam serves as a vital structure for flood control and water supply, contributing to the overall water management efforts in the region.
Although lacking in certain detailed assessments and emergency preparedness measures, L. Runestad remains a significant feature in the local water infrastructure. Its role in safeguarding against floods and supporting water supply needs highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring such critical water resources for climate resilience and sustainable water management practices.
Year Completed |
1943 |
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
WEST FORK ELM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
108 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
L. Runestad