Lowell West Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: K. Darland W. Assmessen
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Lowell West Dam, located in Sully, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in managing the water resources of Bloody Run Creek.
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Summary
Built in 1976, this earth dam stands at a height of 60 feet and has a storage capacity of 600 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 360 acre-feet, the dam serves as a key infrastructure for flood control and water supply in the region.
Maintained by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Lowell West Dam is considered to have a low hazard potential and its condition is currently not rated. While the dam has not been recently inspected, it is regulated and permitted by the state, highlighting the commitment to ensuring its safety and functionality. The dam's importance in water management is underscored by its ability to handle a maximum discharge of 3800 cubic feet per second, showcasing its vital role in mitigating potential flood risks in the area.
In the scenic landscape of South Dakota, Lowell West Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience. As climate change continues to impact the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, structures like this earth dam play a vital role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems. With its strategic location and design, Lowell West Dam remains a critical infrastructure for ensuring water security and flood protection in the region for years to come.
Year Completed |
1976 |
Dam Length |
640 |
Dam Height |
60 |
River Or Stream |
BLOODY RUN CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
600 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
60 |
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.
Lowell West Dam