Summary
Completed in 1936, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 480 acre-feet. Situated on the White River off stream, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for flood control and water supply, contributing to the overall resilience of the local ecosystem.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Linker Dam is subject to state regulations and inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with environmental standards. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition, the dam continues to play a vital role in mitigating the impacts of climate change on the surrounding community. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1170 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle potential flood events while also supporting sustainable water management practices in the area.
As a significant piece of infrastructure in the St. Paul District, Linker Dam represents a collaborative effort between private ownership and state oversight to address water resource challenges. While its exact purposes and associated structures remain unspecified, the dam's historical significance and ongoing role in water management underscore the importance of maintaining and monitoring such critical infrastructure in the face of a changing climate. With its strategic location and capacity to support the local community, Linker Dam serves as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1936 |
Dam Length |
461 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE RIVER OFF STREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Nid Storage |
500 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
Little White R Below White River Sd
|
141cfs |
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.
Linker Dam