Summary
Built in 1976, this earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and has a length of 700 feet, providing a storage capacity of 700 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is state-regulated, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement conducted by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
The dam's primary purpose and specific use cases are not specified in the available data, but it is evident that Mendel Dam plays a significant role in water management and flood control in the region. With a maximum discharge capacity of 5400 cubic feet per second, the dam is designed to mitigate potential risks and ensure the safety of downstream communities. While the dam's condition assessment is currently marked as "Not Rated," its emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain undisclosed.
Managed by a private entity, Mendel Dam stands as a testament to collaborative efforts in maintaining water infrastructure in South Dakota. With its strategic location and regulated operations, the dam stands ready to address any potential challenges posed by climate variability and water resource management in the region. As an essential component of the local water system, Mendel Dam exemplifies the importance of proactive management and monitoring in safeguarding both the environment and communities it serves.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
36 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. JAMES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
36 |
Nid Storage |
700 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
36 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Huber Campground - Lake Menno Rec Area
|
||
Menno Lake Rec Area
|
||
Oilvet Park
|
||
Freeman City Park Campground
|
Mendel Dam