Lone Tree Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Lone Tree Dam, located in Tripp, South Dakota, along TR.


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Summary

OWL CREEK, was completed in 2004 and is owned by a private entity. Designed by Ducks Unlimited, this earth dam stands at a height of 24 feet with a length of 750 feet, providing a storage capacity of 267 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and no outlet gates.

Despite being a privately owned structure, Lone Tree Dam is regulated by the state of South Dakota, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment but has been deemed to have a moderate risk level. While it does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared, it meets state guidelines for risk management measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lone Tree Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of private ownership and state regulation in managing water resources. With its strategic location and design features, this dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage along TR. OWL CREEK, showcasing the importance of infrastructure in mitigating risks and ensuring water security in the region.

Year Completed

2004

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

TR. OWL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

6

Nid Storage

267

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.