Enot Ratedeka Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Enot Ratedeka Lake, located in McPherson, South Dakota, is a significant earth dam structure completed in 1962 with a height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 594 acre-feet.


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Summary

Managed by the local government and regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the dam is situated on TR Spring and serves as a crucial water resource in the region. With a hazard potential rated as significant, the condition of the dam is currently not rated, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity.

Despite the lack of specific purposes listed for Enot Ratedeka Lake, its role in water management and flood control cannot be understated. With a maximum discharge capacity of 0 and a spillway type not specified, the dam's primary function is to store and regulate water flow in the area. The dam's location within the St. Paul District and under state jurisdiction underscores the collaborative efforts involved in managing and maintaining this vital infrastructure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the intricacies of Enot Ratedeka Lake's design, construction, and regulatory oversight present a fascinating case study in dam management. With details such as the dam's designer names and inspection frequency left unspecified, there is ample room for further exploration and research into the history and operations of this essential water infrastructure. The dam's proximity to the river and stream, along with its significant hazard potential, highlights the interconnectedness of water resources and the need for sustainable practices in safeguarding our environment for future generations.

Year Completed

1962

Dam Length

1650

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

TR SPRING

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Nid Storage

594

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.