Laudenslager No. 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jans Herald No.1 Ryno #1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Laudenslager No.
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Summary
1 is a private dam located in Mellette, South Dakota, along the tributary of White Thunder Creek. Completed in 1966, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 19 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," this dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement.
Managed by private owners, Laudenslager No. 1 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region, providing flood control and water storage capabilities. While specific purposes for the dam are not listed, its presence contributes to the overall water infrastructure in South Dakota. The dam's location and design reflect a commitment to maintaining the safety and integrity of the structure, as evidenced by its compliance with state regulations and inspection requirements.
With a maximum discharge of 128 cubic feet per second, Laudenslager No. 1 serves as a vital component of the local watershed, offering protection against flooding and ensuring a stable water supply for the surrounding area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, monitoring and maintaining structures like Laudenslager No. 1 will be essential in safeguarding against potential risks and adapting to changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
544 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. WHITE THUNDER CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
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.
Laudenslager No. 1