Smith Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: White River Association #3 Perry Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Smith Dam, located in Lyman, South Dakota, is a privately-owned structure completed in 2006 by Brosz Engineering.
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Summary
This Earth type dam stands at a height of 43 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 138 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the TR White River, serves the primary purpose of flood control and water supply management in the region.
With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Smith Dam is regulated and inspected by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 120 feet and no outlet gates. Despite not being rated for its condition, the dam is considered to be in a stable state. While Smith Dam currently does not have an emergency action plan in place, it meets regulatory guidelines for operation and maintenance.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the vital role Smith Dam plays in managing water levels and protecting against floods in the area. The dam's strategic location and design contribute to the overall resilience of the region's water infrastructure, ensuring the safety and security of surrounding communities. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Smith Dam will play a crucial role in adapting to and mitigating the effects of extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
2006 |
Dam Length |
485 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
TR WHITE RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
43 |
Nid Storage |
138 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
43 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
Little White R Below White River Sd
|
141cfs |
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
Little White R Near Rosebud Sd
|
96cfs |
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.
Smith Dam