Lake Pelican Flood Control Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kane Dam Rude Hasvold Road Dam
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Lake Pelican Flood Control Dam, located in Codington, South Dakota, was completed in 2003 with a primary purpose of flood control along the Soo Creek-TR.
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Summary
Designed by Barr Engineering, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans 650 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 73 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.
Despite its low hazard potential, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and has not been rated for its current condition. While it does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped to handle emergencies. Overall, Lake Pelican Flood Control Dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in South Dakota.
As a local government-owned structure, Lake Pelican Flood Control Dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between state agencies and engineering firms to address water resource challenges in the region. With a focus on flood control and risk management, this earth dam stands as a testament to proactive measures taken to protect communities and ecosystems from the impacts of extreme weather events. Its strategic location and design make it a key asset in safeguarding the surrounding areas from potential flood hazards, contributing to sustainable water resource management practices in South Dakota.
Year Completed |
2003 |
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Soo Creek-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
73 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Lake Pelican Flood Control Dam