Vivian Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Smith Dam Nielsen Number 1
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Vivian Dam, located in South Dakota along the Medicine Creek, is a state-regulated earth dam with a height of 21 feet and a length of 690 feet.
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Summary
Completed in 1938, this dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 190 acre-feet and serves as a crucial water resource infrastructure in the region. With a significant hazard potential and a not-rated condition assessment, Vivian Dam plays a vital role in managing water levels and mitigating flood risks along the creek.
The dam is under the regulatory authority of the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), which oversees its inspection, permitting, and enforcement processes. Despite its age, Vivian Dam continues to be a key structure for water management, with a normal storage capacity of 90 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capability of 2000 cubic feet per second. The dam's strategic location in Lyman, South Dakota, highlights its importance in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential water-related disasters.
Maintaining the integrity and functionality of Vivian Dam is essential for ensuring water security and climate resilience in the region. With its historical significance and ongoing regulatory oversight, this earth dam stands as a testament to the enduring importance of water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, understanding and supporting the maintenance of structures like Vivian Dam is crucial for sustainable water management practices in the future.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
690 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
MEDICINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
3 |
Nid Storage |
190 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Vivian Dam