Joe Svoboda Reservoir Report
Nearby: Joe Svoboda #2 Snow Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Joe Svoboda is a private earth dam located in Lyman, South Dakota, along the TRIB-WHITE RIVER.
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Summary
Built in 1965, this dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet. With a maximum discharge of 338 cubic feet per second, Joe Svoboda serves a vital role in water resource management in the area.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Joe Svoboda is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, its condition has not been rated. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are currently not available. With its key location, structural design, and historical significance, Joe Svoboda remains an essential component of the region's water infrastructure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Joe Svoboda offers a fascinating case study in dam construction and management. From its foundation as a private structure to its state-regulated operations, this earth dam encapsulates the intersection of human intervention with natural water systems. As a key piece of infrastructure in the St. Paul District, Joe Svoboda plays a crucial role in maintaining water resources and mitigating potential risks in the region.
Year Completed |
1965 |
Dam Length |
283 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Niobrara River At Mariaville
|
1530cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
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.
Joe Svoboda