Dalton Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Dalton Lake is a stunning man-made reservoir located in Lawrence, South Dakota, just 8 miles from the city of Piedmont.


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Summary

Managed by the Forest Service, this federal-owned water body serves primarily for recreational purposes such as fishing and wildlife observation. Completed in 1974, the Earth-type dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a storage capacity of 41 acre-feet, making it a vital resource for the local community.

With a drainage area of 9 square miles and a maximum discharge of 4900 cubic feet per second, Dalton Lake poses a high hazard potential but is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of its condition assessment. The spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 30 feet, and the outlet gates are also uncontrolled. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate (3), emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of this water resource in the face of potential climate challenges.

Despite the lack of a surface area measurement, Dalton Lake remains a picturesque destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts, offering a serene setting for outdoor activities and a crucial habitat for local wildlife. As climate change continues to impact water resources, monitoring and managing the dam's safety and operational integrity will be essential to preserving this valuable asset for future generations.

Year Completed

1974

Dam Length

256

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

LITTLE ELK CR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

16

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

41

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

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.