Ole Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Reinicke Dam Bullis Wetland Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ole Lake Dam, located in Kingsbury, South Dakota, is a federal-owned structure designed by Ducks Unlimited, Inc.
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Summary
The dam serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service for conservation purposes. Completed in 1990, the earth dam stands at 8 feet high with a hydraulic height of 6 feet, creating a storage capacity of 225 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 33.4 acres.
With a controlled spillway and low hazard potential, Ole Lake Dam has a fair condition assessment as of September 2020. Despite not being state-regulated, the dam site falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Natural Resources (DENR). The dam's primary purpose is to support fish and wildlife activities in the region, with a very high risk assessment ranking due to its importance in managing water resources for the local ecosystem. Overall, Ole Lake Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area.
Managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service, Ole Lake Dam remains a vital structure for water resource management and conservation efforts in South Dakota. Its strategic location near an unnamed tributary to Lake Preston-TR underscores its significance in supporting the local ecosystem. With a focus on environmental stewardship, the dam continues to provide essential habitat for various wildlife species while ensuring the proper management of water resources in the region. As a key component in the state's conservation efforts, Ole Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable practices in maintaining the balance of nature.
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
296 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
Unnamed tributary to Lake Preston-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
33.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
0.92 |
Nid Storage |
225 |
Structural Height |
8 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Ole Lake Dam