Little White River Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
The Little White River Dam, located in Bennett, South Dakota, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the U.S.
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Summary
Department of Agriculture. Built in 1938, this earth dam stands at a height of 26 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 2957 acre-feet. With a primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, it also supports irrigation and recreation activities in the area.
The dam spans 7676 feet and has undergone several modifications over the years to enhance its hydraulic, structural, and foundation integrity. Its hazard potential is considered high, but its current condition is rated as fair, with the last assessment conducted in September 2019. The dam's emergency action plan is continuously updated to ensure it meets safety guidelines and is in line with risk management measures.
The Little White River Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, serving as a vital source for fish and wildlife preservation, irrigation needs, and recreational activities. Its strategic location and design highlight the importance of sustainable infrastructure development to support both environmental conservation and community well-being.
Years Modified |
1982 - Hydraulic, 1982 - Structural, 1999 - Hydraulic, 2007 - Foundation, 2007 - Hydraulic, 2007 - Mechanical, 2007 - Other, 2007 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
7676 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
150 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
332.1 |
Nid Storage |
2957 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
32 |
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.
Little White River Dam