Stockade Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bismark Lake Legion Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Stockade Lake Dam, located in Custer, South Dakota, stands as a testament to the state's commitment to water resource management.
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Summary
Built in 1930, this earth dam on French Creek boasts a height of 53 feet and a storage capacity of 2605 acre-feet. It plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and providing flood protection in the region, with a maximum discharge capacity of 6000 cubic feet per second.
Despite its age, Stockade Lake Dam remains in fair condition, with a high hazard potential that necessitates regular inspections and maintenance. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, ensuring that it meets state regulatory standards for safety and operation. With a history of effective management and a solid emergency action plan in place, Stockade Lake Dam continues to serve as a vital resource for the local community and surrounding areas.
As climate change impacts water resources and intensifies extreme weather events, the importance of structures like Stockade Lake Dam only grows. Its role in managing water flow, protecting against floods, and ensuring reliable water supply highlights the need for ongoing investment and attention to maintain its effectiveness. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and supporting the continued stewardship of Stockade Lake Dam is crucial for safeguarding the region's water security and resilience in the face of a changing climate.
Year Completed |
1930 |
Dam Length |
440 |
Dam Height |
53 |
River Or Stream |
FRENCH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
53 |
Drainage Area |
76 |
Nid Storage |
2605 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
53 |
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.
Stockade Lake Campground South
Stockade Lake N - Custer State Park
Stockade Lake North Campground
Bismark Lake Campground
Bismarck Lake
Stockade Lake S - Custer State Park
Stockade Lake Dam