Boydston Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Sd Noname 111 Sd Noname 20
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Boydston Dam in South Dakota, completed in 2017, stands as a testament to the collaboration between private owners and state agencies in the regulation and maintenance of water resources.
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Summary
Designed by the NRCS, this earth dam on Boxelder Creek-TR boasts a height of 12 feet and a length of 540 feet, providing a storage capacity of 100 acre-feet for irrigation and flood control purposes. Despite its relatively low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Boydston Dam remains a vital structure in the region's water management system.
While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its construction and operation uphold state regulations and inspection protocols. With a spillway type classified as uncontrolled and no outlet gates, Boydston Dam serves as a key component in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water security for the surrounding Pennington County community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the presence of dams like Boydston highlights the importance of sound infrastructure and proactive risk management strategies to address evolving environmental challenges.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate Boydston Dam as a prime example of public-private cooperation in safeguarding critical water infrastructure. As a focal point for water management in South Dakota, this earth dam underscores the need for ongoing monitoring, maintenance, and risk assessment to adapt to changing climatic conditions and ensure the resilience of water systems. With its completion in 2017 and state-regulated operations, Boydston Dam stands as a symbol of proactive stewardship in the face of uncertain environmental futures.
Year Completed |
2017 |
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
Boxelder Creek-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Nid Storage |
100 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
12 |
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.
Boydston Dam