Booth Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Booth, also known as Engen, is a federal-owned structure located in Lyman, South Dakota, specifically in the city of Presho.


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Summary

Completed in 1938, this earth dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, and a small fish pond. With a height of 23 feet and a length of 400 feet, Booth has a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 84 cubic feet per second.

Managed by the Forest Service, Booth has a low hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level. Despite not being state-regulated, the dam has not been rated for its condition assessment and last underwent inspection in October 2006. While it boasts an uncontrolled spillway type, the structure does not have an inundation map prepared or an emergency action plan in place.

With its location along the Dry Draw river/stream, Booth serves as a key resource for fire protection and wildlife in the area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and practical utility of this federal-owned structure in the heart of South Dakota.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

DRY DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.