Summary
With a dam height of 17 feet and a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, Mensch plays a key role in regulating water flow and providing flood control in the region. Although the dam is of low hazard potential and has not been formally rated for condition assessment, it is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
Managed by private owners, Mensch is an earth dam with a length of 300 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 504 cfs. While the dam itself has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain safety features such as spillways and outlet gates, it continues to fulfill its primary purpose of water storage and management. Despite the absence of a formal Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or risk assessment, Mensch remains a critical infrastructure for water supply and climate resilience in the region, benefiting from its strategic location within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and evaluate the condition of dams like Mensch, there remains a need for proactive risk management measures and the development of comprehensive emergency preparedness plans. With its historical significance and ongoing role in water control, Mensch serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices and the need for continuous monitoring and maintenance of critical infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR-JAMES |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Huber Campground - Lake Menno Rec Area
|
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Menno Lake Rec Area
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Oilvet Park
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Freeman City Park Campground
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Mensch