M. Smith Reservoir Report
Nearby: T. Jennings K Lazy K Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
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Summary
Smith is a privately owned dam located in Hyde, South Dakota, on the West Fork Elm Creek. Constructed in 1953, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 570 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, M. Smith is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement measures in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Managed by a private owner, M. Smith plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, with a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 850 cubic feet per second. While the dam's condition assessment is currently rated as "Not Rated," it is subject to regular inspections and monitoring to uphold its structural integrity and mitigate potential risks. Additionally, with its emergency action plan status and risk management measures yet to be fully assessed, M. Smith remains a focal point for climate and water resource enthusiasts interested in understanding the resilience and sustainability of infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, M. Smith stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private owners and regulatory agencies in safeguarding water resources and infrastructure. As the dam continues to provide vital water storage capacity and flood control capabilities for the region, its location and design underscore the importance of integrated water resource management practices in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of critical infrastructure in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1953 |
Dam Length |
570 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
WEST FORK ELM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
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.
M. Smith