Dorman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Dorman Dam, located in Lyman, South Dakota, along the TRIB MEDICINE CREEK, was completed in 1939 and stands at a height of 18 feet with a length of 80 feet.


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Summary

This earth dam has a storage capacity of 384 acre-feet and serves the primary purpose of water resource management. Despite being privately owned, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Dorman Dam provides valuable water storage and flood control benefits to the surrounding area. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are currently unknown, but its location in a relatively low-risk area suggests a stable and secure infrastructure. Managed by private owners, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region and contributes to the overall climate resilience and sustainability of the local ecosystem.

As a key component of the water infrastructure in Lyman, South Dakota, Dorman Dam plays a vital role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks along TRIB MEDICINE CREEK. With its historical significance dating back to the late 1930s, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Dorman Dam is essential in promoting environmental conservation and resilience in the face of future challenges.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

80

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TRIB MEDICINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

384

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.