Summary
Built in 1980 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 33 feet tall and stretches 555 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 104 acre-feet, the dam serves the purpose of regulating water flow and protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Lower James Rc&D Ca-171-Ya is classified as a low hazard potential structure with a condition assessment of "Not Rated." Despite its modest size, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region. The dam is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity and safety for nearby communities, with state enforcement and permitting agencies actively involved in its regulation.
As part of the larger St. Paul District, the dam does not have a designated emergency action plan in place, but it meets state guidelines for risk management. While the dam's risk assessment and management measures are not explicitly outlined, its presence contributes to the overall water infrastructure in the area. With Dusty Johnson (R) as the congressional representative, the Lower James Rc&D Ca-171-Ya serves as a key component in water resource conservation and climate resilience efforts in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1980 |
Dam Length |
555 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. CLAY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
104 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
Lower James Rc&D Ca-171-Ya