Tisdale Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tift Dam D & D Farms
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Tisdale Lake in Meade, South Dakota, is a state-owned reservoir constructed in 1935 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
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Summary
It serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area, with a storage capacity of 310 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 3000 cubic feet per second. The dam, primarily made of earth with stone core types and soil foundations, stands at a height of 30 feet and spans 1090 feet along Lone Tree Creek.
Although Tisdale Lake has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, it is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Inspections are conducted regularly, with the last one taking place in August 2018. The reservoir's spillway, an uncontrolled type with a width of 100 feet, helps manage water flow during heavy rainfall events. Despite not being rated for its condition, Tisdale Lake remains a critical infrastructure for water storage and management in the region.
With its historical significance and importance in water resource management, Tisdale Lake provides a glimpse into the WPA's legacy of infrastructure development during the Great Depression. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the reservoir's role in mitigating risks and ensuring sustainable water supply underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. Overall, Tisdale Lake stands as a testament to the intersection of history, engineering, and environmental stewardship in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
1090 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
LONE TREE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
310 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
30 |
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.
Tisdale Lake