Summary
Built in 1942 for recreational purposes, the dam stands at a height of 57 feet with a hydraulic height of 26 feet. It has a storage capacity of 10,800 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 515 acres. With a controlled spillway width of 120 feet, Oglala is classified as having a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment.
Managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Oglala has not been inspected since August 2012, with a scheduled inspection frequency of 5 years. The dam is currently in a condition assessment status of "Not Available" and does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared. While it has not experienced any modifications over the years, the dam's risk management measures and inundation maps are also not readily available. Despite its risk potential, the dam serves as a vital recreational resource in the region, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Oglala represents a significant Federal-owned dam in South Dakota that plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities along the White Clay Creek. With its high hazard potential and very high risk assessment, the dam highlights the importance of regular inspections and the implementation of emergency action plans. As a key structure managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Oglala serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and recreational activities in the Oglala Lakota community.
Year Completed |
1942 |
Dam Length |
2450 |
Dam Height |
57 |
River Or Stream |
WHITE CLAY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
515 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
10800 |
Structural Height |
57 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
57 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oglala Sd
|
101cfs |
White R Nr Ne-Sd State Line
|
10cfs |
Horsehead Cr At Oelrichs Sd
|
0cfs |
Cheyenne R Near Buffalo Gap Sd
|
103cfs |
Beaver Cr Near Buffalo Gap Sd
|
11cfs |
Cheyenne River At Redshirt
|
311cfs |
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.
Oglala