Lewis & Tinsley Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: George Levin Dam No.1 Lundren 2
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Lewis & Tinsley Dam, located in Meade, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that was completed in 1959.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans a length of 600 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 40 acre-feet and a normal storage of 28 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the TRIB-WEST ELM CREEK and is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Lewis & Tinsley Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Although details on emergency action plans and risk management measures are not provided, the dam is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement, ensuring its compliance with safety standards. The dam's location within the Omaha District of the US Army Corps of Engineers highlights its importance in flood control and water supply for the local community.
As a significant infrastructure for water storage and management, Lewis & Tinsley Dam serves as a vital asset in the face of changing climate conditions and growing water demands. Its presence contributes to the overall resilience of the region's water resources and underscores the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation in the years to come. Enthusiasts in water resource and climate fields can appreciate the role of dams like Lewis & Tinsley in sustainable water management practices and mitigating the impacts of a changing climate on water availability.
Year Completed |
1959 |
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-WEST ELM CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
40 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Belle Fourche R Near Sturgis Sd
|
34cfs |
Horse Cr Above Vale Sd
|
13cfs |
Belle Fourche River Near Elm Springs
|
17900cfs |
Elk Cr Nr Rapid City Sd
|
3cfs |
Whitewood Cr Above Vale Sd
|
16cfs |
Elk Cr Near Elm Springs Sd
|
0cfs |
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.
Lewis & Tinsley Dam