Summary
With a height of 16 feet and a capacity of 283 acre-feet, the dam serves as a vital component for flood control and irrigation in the region. The low hazard potential of the dam, along with its regular inspection and enforcement by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, ensures the safety and functionality of this earth-type structure.
The dam, situated within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, plays a crucial role in maintaining a normal storage capacity of 129 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 1900 cubic feet per second. Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, the dam's sturdy construction and historical significance underscore its importance in water resource management in the area. With Dusty Johnson representing the region in Congress, the McLaughlin Dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices in South Dakota.
As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, McLaughlin Dam exemplifies the collaboration between state and federal agencies to ensure the safety and efficiency of water resource management. With a focus on regular inspections, emergency preparedness, and risk assessment, the dam serves as a model for sustainable dam operation in the region. Its strategic location and historical significance make McLaughlin Dam a key asset for climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals alike, highlighting the importance of effective dam management in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
16 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE RIVER OFF STREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
283 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Niobrara River Near Sparks
|
969cfs |
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1650cfs |
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.
Mclaughlin Dam