Lavon Shearer Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sd Noname 36 David Kitterman
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lavon Shearer, a privately owned dam located in Pennington, South Dakota, is a critical water resource structure managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
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Summary
Built in 1935, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a storage capacity of 340 acre-feet, serving the TR Bad River. With a low hazard potential and a current condition assessment of "Not Rated," Lavon Shearer plays a vital role in water management and flood control in the region.
Although there is limited information available on the dam's associated structures and inspection history, it is clear that Lavon Shearer meets state regulatory standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a maximum discharge capacity of 2500 cubic feet per second, this dam has the capacity to handle significant water flow during periods of high rainfall or snowmelt. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment remain unspecified, highlighting areas where further evaluation and preparation may be needed to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
Under the oversight of the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Lavon Shearer stands as a testament to early 20th-century water infrastructure development in South Dakota. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the dam's condition and operational status, it remains a key feature in the region's water management landscape, providing essential flood protection and water storage capabilities for the surrounding community.
Year Completed |
1935 |
Dam Length |
2050 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
TR BAD RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
340 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Lavon Shearer