Alvine Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Herman Mip #1 Lake Herman Mip #2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Alvine Dam, located in South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam completed in 1974 on a tributary of the East Vermillion River.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 30 feet and with a length of 350 feet, the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 100 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 81 acre-feet. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential and currently not assessed for condition, the dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Alvine Dam does not have a designated primary purpose but serves as a crucial water resource structure in the area. With a maximum discharge capacity of 1950 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in water management and flood control in the region. While lacking recent inspection and assessment data, Alvine Dam remains a significant infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and monitor in the context of changing environmental conditions and potential risks.
As a part of the St. Paul District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Alvine Dam provides valuable insights into the intersection of water resource management, climate change adaptation, and infrastructure safety. With its location on the East Vermillion River tributary, the dam's operational and regulatory framework offers a unique case study for understanding the challenges and opportunities in maintaining a resilient water infrastructure system in the face of evolving environmental conditions. For enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water resources and climate, Alvine Dam presents a compelling subject for further exploration and analysis.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. EAST VERMILLION RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Skunk Cr Nr Chester Sd
|
1cfs |
Big Sioux River Near Brookings Sd
|
388cfs |
Big Sioux R Near Dell Rapids Sd
|
460cfs |
Big Sioux River Near Bruce
|
280cfs |
James R Near Forestburg Sd
|
560cfs |
James R Near Mitchell Sd
|
659cfs |
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.
Alvine Dam