Lake Corsica Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lake Corsica Dam, located in South Dakota, is a vital structure that regulates the flow of Choteau Creek and provides essential water resources for the surrounding area.


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Summary

Built in 1939 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA), this earth dam stands at a height of 32 feet and has a length of 720 feet. With a maximum storage capacity of 2020 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring reliable water supply for the region.

Despite its age, Lake Corsica Dam remains in good condition and is inspected regularly to uphold safety standards. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 75 feet and vertical lift outlet gates. With a high hazard potential due to its location and design, the dam is closely monitored for any potential risks. Additionally, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating, indicating the need for ongoing risk management measures to protect the surrounding community and environment.

Managed by the local government, Lake Corsica Dam serves as a key infrastructure for water resource management in Douglas County, South Dakota. With its historical significance and functional importance, the dam continues to play a crucial role in providing water security and flood control for the region. As climate change impacts water resources, the maintenance and operation of structures like Lake Corsica Dam are essential for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of water systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

720

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

CHOTEAU CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

81

Nid Storage

2020

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.
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