Mcintosh Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Mcintosh Lake, located in South Dakota near the city of Bullhead, is a privately owned reservoir regulated by the state's Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 20 feet and a length of 1716 feet, was completed in 1910 and serves multiple purposes, including water storage and flood control for the surrounding area. The reservoir has a normal storage capacity of 161 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 786 acre-feet.

Despite being last inspected in 1986, Mcintosh Lake is classified as having a significant hazard potential, although its condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated." The dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are unknown, indicating a potential area for improvement in terms of safety and preparedness. The reservoir's proximity to Stink Creek and its drainage area of 3 square miles highlight its importance in water resource management for the region.

With its historical significance dating back over a century and its role in mitigating flood risks and providing water storage, Mcintosh Lake is a vital resource in South Dakota. However, the lack of recent inspections and assessments suggest a need for updated emergency preparedness measures and risk management strategies to ensure the dam's continued safety and effectiveness in the face of potential climate challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring the developments and maintenance of Mcintosh Lake will be crucial in safeguarding the surrounding community and environment.

Year Completed

1910

Dam Length

1716

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

STINK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

786

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.