Ehlers Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Alfred Not Ratedban William Smith
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Ehlers Dam, located in Lyman, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that serves as a crucial water resource in the region.
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Summary
Completed in 1992, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a length of 555 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. Situated on the tributary of Cedar Creek, the dam plays a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the area.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Ehlers Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being categorized as low hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition assessment, the dam remains a key infrastructure for controlling water flow, with a maximum discharge capacity of 537 cubic feet per second.
With emergency action plans in place and a designated risk management framework, Ehlers Dam continues to be a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts who are interested in the sustainable management of water infrastructure. Its strategic location and operational efficiency make it a critical asset for the community and a symbol of responsible water resource management in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
555 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB. CEDAR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Ehlers Dam