Center Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Center Lake Dam in Custer, South Dakota, stands as a State-regulated structure on Grace Coolidge Creek, completed in 1935 with a primary purpose that remains unspecified.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam boasts a height of 56 feet and a length of 406 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 705 acre-feet and normal storage of 432 acre-feet. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, with a fair condition assessment as of November 2020.

Located within the jurisdiction of the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), Center Lake Dam undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite its age, the dam has demonstrated resilience and continues to serve its intended functions effectively. With a maximum discharge capacity of 19,300 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region and mitigating flood risks along Grace Coolidge Creek.

As a key component of water resource management in the area, Center Lake Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for the local community and surrounding areas. With Dusty Johnson (R) representing the Congressional district, the dam's condition and operational efficiency remain critical factors in safeguarding the environment, public safety, and water supply for the region. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, the maintenance and upkeep of Center Lake Dam will be essential for adapting to evolving hydrological conditions and ensuring the resilience of water infrastructure in South Dakota.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

406

Dam Height

56

River Or Stream

GRACE COOLIDGE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

56

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

705

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

56
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.