Hutchinson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hutchinson Irr. Dam Bruce Herman
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Hutchinson Dam, located in Lyman, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam that was completed in 1968.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 38 feet, the dam serves as a crucial water resource structure on the tributary of the White River. With a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 2900 cubic feet per second, Hutchinson Dam plays a significant role in managing water flow and storage in the region.
Despite its low hazard potential and not yet rated condition assessment, Hutchinson Dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures. The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not specified, but the dam's normal storage capacity of 105 acre-feet indicates its importance for water supply and management in the area. With its strategic location and design, Hutchinson Dam contributes to the overall water resource infrastructure in South Dakota and plays a vital role in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water availability and management.
As a key feature in the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Hutchinson Dam serves as a critical component in the region's water resource management system. While specific details about the dam's spillway type, outlet gates, and emergency action plan are not provided, its presence and functionality contribute to the overall resilience of the water infrastructure in Lyman County. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Hutchinson Dam stands as a testament to the importance of efficient and well-regulated water management structures in mitigating the effects of extreme weather events and ensuring water availability for both present and future generations.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
Little White R Below White River Sd
|
141cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
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.
Hutchinson Dam