Schindler Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Oscar Diess Reliance Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Schindler Dam, located on TR Red Butte Creek in Lyman, South Dakota, is a privately owned structure with a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 2010 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 16 feet tall and spans 452 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 112 acre-feet. The dam serves the purpose of regulating flow and providing water storage for the surrounding area.
Managed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Schindler Dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. With a spillway width of 125 feet and a maximum discharge of 1688 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped to handle potential overflow events. Although its condition is currently rated as "Not Rated," the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans contribute to its overall operational efficiency and safety.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Schindler Dam presents a fascinating case study in dam engineering and management. Its location in a rural area with limited associated structures highlights the importance of small-scale water infrastructure in supporting local communities and agriculture. Despite its unassuming size, Schindler Dam plays a critical role in water resource management and flood control in the region, showcasing the intricate balance between human development and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
2010 |
Dam Length |
452 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
TR RED BUTTE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
112 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
White R Near Oacoma Sd
|
105cfs |
Bad R Near Fort Pierre Sd
|
7cfs |
Platte Creek Near Platte
|
3cfs |
White River Near White River
|
42cfs |
Keya Paha R Near Keyapaha Sd
|
33cfs |
Little White R Below White River Sd
|
141cfs |
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.
Schindler Dam