Velda Ramser Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cannon Dam Archie Millard #2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Velda Ramser Dam, located in Lyman, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure designed by Ducks Unlimited and completed in 1994.
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Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and stretches 540 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 380 acre-feet on Mill Iron Creek. While its primary purpose is not specified, the dam serves to regulate water flow and provides important flood control measures in the area.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Velda Ramser Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections, ensuring its safety and functionality. With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management within the region. As part of the St. Paul District, the dam contributes to the overall water infrastructure and environmental conservation efforts in South Dakota.
Despite lacking specific details on its primary purpose and associated structures, Velda Ramser Dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private entities, governmental agencies, and conservation organizations in safeguarding water resources and mitigating climate-related risks. With its strategic location and design features, the dam continues to play a vital role in maintaining water quality, controlling floods, and supporting the ecological balance of Mill Iron Creek and its surrounding areas.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
21 |
River Or Stream |
MILL IRON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Drainage Area |
14 |
Nid Storage |
380 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
21 |
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 |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Keya Paha R At Wewela Sd
|
54cfs |
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.
Velda Ramser Dam