Canton Dam No.1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fluitt Dam Christensen Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Canton Dam No.1, also known as Christmas Lake, is a privately owned earth dam located in Lincoln, South Dakota.
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Summary
Completed in 1977, this dam serves as a crucial structure along the tributary of the Big Sioux River, with a dam height of 27 feet and a hydraulic height of 22 feet. With a storage capacity of 159 acre-feet, this dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the area, especially during times of high discharge.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Canton Dam No.1 is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. Despite its significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment score, the dam's condition remains unrated. As an uncontrolled spillway dam, it is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor and assess the risk management measures in place to mitigate potential incidents and ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
With its strategic location and vital role in water resource management, Canton Dam No.1 serves as a critical infrastructure for the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, it is essential for stakeholders to collaborate and implement effective risk management measures to safeguard the dam and its surrounding areas from potential hazards and ensure the sustainable use of water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1977 |
Dam Length |
455 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-BIG SIOUX RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
159 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
27 |
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.
Canton Dam No.1