Pearl Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jones Lake Dam Lake Dakotah
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Pearl Lake, located in Hand, South Dakota, is a privately owned reservoir regulated by the state's Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
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Summary
Built in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a storage capacity of 184 acre-feet. The dam, which spans 720 feet in length, serves as a crucial water resource for the region, with a normal storage level of 86 acre-feet.
Despite its age, Pearl Lake's hazard potential is classified as low, with a condition assessment of "Not Rated." While the last inspection took place in 1995, the dam continues to meet state regulatory standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The reservoir, fed by Pearl Creek, plays a vital role in managing water discharge, with a maximum capacity of 3600 cubic feet per second. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Pearl Lake serves as a fascinating example of early 20th-century dam engineering and management in the American Midwest.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
720 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
TR-PEARL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Nid Storage |
184 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James R At Huron Sd
|
548cfs |
James R Near Redfield Sd
|
468cfs |
James R At Ashton Sd
|
418cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
Firesteel Cr Near Mount Vernon Sd
|
0cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
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.
Pearl Lake