Lesmeister Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jackson Dam Standing Rock Tribe
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lesmeister Dam, located in Corson, South Dakota, is a privately owned earth dam with a height of 40 feet and a length of 500 feet.
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Summary
The dam regulates the flow of Tr. Oak Creek and provides a maximum storage capacity of 321 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 257 acre-feet. The spillway, which is uncontrolled, has a width of 38 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 422 cubic feet per second.
Although the dam is classified as having a low hazard potential, it is deemed to have a moderate risk level. The condition of the dam is currently not rated, and it has not been inspected or assessed for its emergency action plan preparedness. The risk management measures and guidelines for the dam have not been clearly outlined, signaling some potential areas of improvement for its overall safety and operation. Located in a region vulnerable to climate change impacts, ensuring the resilience and proper maintenance of Lesmeister Dam is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in safeguarding this critical infrastructure.
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
40 |
River Or Stream |
TR. OAK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
40 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
321 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
40 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Oak Cr Near Wakpala Sd
|
10cfs |
Grand R At Little Eagle Sd
|
47cfs |
Moreau R Near Whitehorse Sd
|
35cfs |
Beaver Creek Bl Linton
|
39cfs |
Cedar Creek Nr Raleigh
|
20cfs |
Cannonball River Nr Raleigh
|
40cfs |
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.
Lesmeister Dam