Christensen Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bruce Herman Hutchinson Irr. Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Christensen Dam, located in Lyman, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.
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Summary
Completed in 1968, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a storage capacity of 1200 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 825 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary of the White River, the dam helps regulate water flow, with a maximum discharge capacity of 2900 cubic feet per second.
Despite its low hazard potential, Christensen Dam is subject to state regulation and oversight, with the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) responsible for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While the dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated," regular assessments ensure its safety and structural integrity. The dam also has emergency action plans in place, although specific details on their status and effectiveness are not provided in the data.
The presence of Christensen Dam highlights the importance of efficient water management and infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources. As climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Christensen in regulating water flow, preventing flooding, and supporting irrigation and recreation activities is essential for promoting sustainable water use in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
1000 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Nid Storage |
1200 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Little White R Below White River Sd
|
141cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
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.
Christensen Dam