L. Stephenson Reservoir Report
Nearby: L. M. Hanson No W. J. Asmussen
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
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Summary
Stephenson is a privately owned dam located in Hyde, South Dakota, along the South Medicine Creek. Built in 1951, this earthen dam stands at a height of 13 feet and has a length of 530 feet, providing a storage capacity of 78 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and being classified as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, L. Stephenson is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, L. Stephenson serves a primary purpose that is not explicitly specified in the data. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1000 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. While lacking detailed information on emergency action plans and risk assessment, the dam is deemed to have a low hazard potential, highlighting its relatively stable and secure condition.
With its strategic location and significance in water storage and management, L. Stephenson presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Despite its age and limited information on certain aspects like emergency preparedness, the dam serves as a valuable asset in the region's infrastructure, contributing to the overall resilience and sustainability of the water system along the South Medicine Creek in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1951 |
Dam Length |
530 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH MEDICINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
78 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
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. Stephenson