Labolt Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Johnson Dam Mud Creek Dt Dam M-1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Labolt Lake in South Dakota is a state-regulated water resource with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment.
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Summary
Constructed in 1935 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet. The lake is situated in Grant County, South Dakota, and is fed by the Yellow Bank-TR stream.
Despite being uncontrolled, Labolt Lake has a spillway width of 50 feet and a maximum discharge of 2,274 cubic feet per second. The dam's condition has not been rated, but it undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity. With its serene surroundings and strategic location, Labolt Lake serves as a vital resource for both recreational activities and water management in the region.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Labolt Lake to be a fascinating example of early 20th-century dam engineering. Its historical significance, combined with its practical functions for flood control and water storage, make it a compelling site to study and appreciate. As a state-owned and state-regulated structure, Labolt Lake represents a harmonious balance between human intervention and natural resource management in the heart of South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
YELLOW BANK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Drainage Area |
11 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Whetstone River Near Big Stone City
|
29300cfs |
Yellow Bank River Near Odessa
|
100cfs |
Minnesota River At Ortonville
|
130cfs |
Big Sioux R Near Watertown Sd
|
19cfs |
Big Sioux R At Watertown Sd
|
26cfs |
Big Sioux River Nr Florence Sd
|
5cfs |
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.
Labolt Lake