Lake Campbell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lake Campbell, located in Campbell, South Dakota, is a state-regulated water resource with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment.


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Summary

The earth dam, standing at a height of 34 feet and completed in 1934, serves as a vital structure for managing TR Spring Creek's flow and storing water for various purposes. With a storage capacity of 1300 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water levels for irrigation, recreation, and wildlife habitat in the surrounding area.

Although the condition assessment of Lake Campbell is currently not rated, regular inspections are conducted every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The spillway, with a width of 30 feet, helps manage water discharge during times of high flow, while the dam's stone core and soil foundation provide stability and strength. Despite the moderate risk level, the dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are yet to be fully updated, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and preparedness for potential emergencies.

As a key water resource in the region, Lake Campbell, with its historical significance and functional importance, showcases the intersection of water management, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship. With Dusty Johnson (R) representing the area in Congress, there is a shared responsibility among state and federal agencies to ensure the dam's continued operation, maintenance, and safety for the benefit of both the local community and the natural ecosystem.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

TR SPRING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

34

Drainage Area

15

Nid Storage

1300

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

34
       
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.